Cholesterol is the waxy substance that can be found in your bloodstream. Your body makes it naturally, and you can also get it from certain foods. Excessive drinking of alcohol is also known to raise cholesterol levels, according to the American Heart Association. High levels of cholesterol can lead to heart attack, stroke and heart disease.
Types of Cholesterol
There are two types of cholesterol. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is the HDL --- high-density lipoprotein --- cholesterol, known as the good cholesterol, and LDL --- low-density lipoprotein --- cholesterol, the bad cholesterol. The LDL cholesterol causes build-ups in your arteries, which makes the blood-flow path very narrow. High levels of LDL cholesterol can cause a heart attack or heart disease. HDL cholesterol transports LDL from the blood to the liver, where it is processed and destroyed.
Alcohol Consumption Effects
The American Heart Association explains that drinking a lot of alcohol can raise triglycerides in your blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the bloodstream; high levels can make the walls of the arteries thicker and more susceptible to clogs. High triglyceride levels can lead to health risks such as heart disease or stroke. Drinking too much alcohol can also lead to increased blood pressure, heart attacks and obesity.
High Cholesterol Risks
One of the major risks of having high cholesterol is atherosclerosis, according to the Mayo Clinic. Atherosclerosis is the build-up of cholesterol and other fats along the walls of your arteries. This can lead to reduced blood flow, which carries a variety of health risks. When cholesterol clogs the arteries near your heart, you can experience chronic chest pain, which could lead to coronary artery disease. You can also experience a heart attack if the cholesterol build-up ruptures and causes a blood clot near your heart, the Mayo Clinic adds.
Prevention/Solution
Drink alcohol only in moderation. Avoid drinking alcohol if you have not already started drinking it. The American Heart Association recommends that men limit their intake to two servings of alcohol a day and that women should have just one. Excessive drinking of alcohol can lead to many health risks, such as high blood pressure, obesity and increased chances of stroke. Consult your doctor for the best techniques to drink in moderation.
Considerations
You can help prevent high levels of cholesterol by making healthy food choices. Avoid foods high in fat and sodium, which are likely to contain cholesterol. Eat foods such whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables. These types of food contain no cholesterol and can help lower your current cholesterol level. The Mayo Clinic recommends at least 30 minutes of exercise a day to help your body produce more HDL cholesterol, which will help fight the bad cholesterol.
