Fats found in the bloodstream are referred to as lipids. The two major forms of lipids include cholesterol and triglycerides, which serve a role in the process of digestion by traveling through the body in the form of lipoproteins. Lipids and proteins occurring in excess results in hyperlipidemia. According to the Society for Vascular Surgery, hyperlipidemia is a general term referring to a variety of conditions, including high cholesterol, high triglycerides and dyslipidemia. Treatment for these related conditions starts with lifestyle changes to reduce levels as well as providing intervention for other medical conditions contributing to high lipid levels.
Step 1
Make changes to your diet. MayoClinic.com indicates that nutrition has a direct impact on your cholesterol level. Pay attention to the nutrition labels on foods you buy. Try to keep cholesterol consumption under 300mg a day. Avoid foods with high levels of salt and sugar, and choose fresh produce instead. Limit daily intake of saturated and trans fats. Bake, grill or steam food instead of frying it. According to the 2001 study in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition", eating a diet low in animal protein, such as beef, and high in vegetables results in a reduction of protein hyperlipidemia and is safer for individuals experiencing co-occurring medical complications from diabetes.
Step 2
Add wheat gluten to your vegetables. Consult your physician regarding use of wheat gluten to lower lipid levels related to increased protein. Wheat gluten is an alternative to using soy based products and animal meats. The "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" indicates that using wheat gluten with vegetables can reduce serum lipid levels and low density lipoproteins, as part of a longer term treatment for protein hyperlipidemia. Wheat gluten is available in natural food stores.
Step 3
Start exercising and lose weight. Carrying extra weight around your middle section increases your risk of heart disease, related to hyperlipidemia, notes the Society for Vascular Surgery. After consulting your physician, start a light exercise program by walking or jogging. Increase your physical activity gradually and consider joining an aerobics class or gym to maximize your weight loss potential. Ask your physician how much weight you need to lose in to lower your lipid levels.
Step 4
Eat more fish and less red meat. Try cod, tuna or salmon twice a week to improve your high density lipoprotein levels, which help cleanse your arteries of unhealthy cholesterol and triglycerides.
Step 5
Get regular health checkups and manage medical conditions. Your risk of hyperlipidemia is increased in the event of pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism or kidney disease, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Go to the doctor annually for a physical exam, refill and take your prescription medications and manage other medical conditions to prevent complications related to high lipid levels.
Step 6
Stop smoking. Find a smoking cessation group for support and work on quitting smoking in order to improve your lipid levels. Discuss smoking cessation medications with your physician if you are unable to quit on your own.
Step 7
Take statin or comparable medications. The American Academy of Family Physicians indicates that of the 52 million Americans with high lipid disorders, 12.7 million require prescription drugs to lower levels in addition to dietary changes. Various forms of medications are used to treat hyperlipidemia with statins being the most commonly and effectively used. Niacin in higher dosages are also useful in treating hyperlipidemia. Niacin is available over the counter, however, the most effective treatment is from prescription strength forms. Discuss medication options with your physician.
Tips and Warnings
- A heart healthy diet includes whole grains and plenty of vegetables and fruits. Eating soluble fiber, such as oatmeal is also important in lowering lipid levels.
- Statin medications are effective however, the most expensive form of drug treatment. Use of niacin is associated with flushing as a side effect.
References
- MayoClinic.com: High Cholesterol
- University of Maryland Medical Center: High Blood Cholesterol and Triglycerides
- Society for Vascular Surgery: Hyperlipidemia
- American Academy of Family Physicians: Choosing Drug Therapy for Patients With Hyperlipidemia
- Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Dyslipidemia: Lipid Disorders
- "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition": High-Protein Diets in Hyperlipidemia: Effect of Wheat Gluten on Serum Lipids, Uric Acid and Renal Function; David A. Jenkins, et al; 2001
