Smoking is a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular disease. Tobacco smoking enhances plaque formation of cholesterol in the blood vessels of the body. Cholesterol metabolism is affected by smoking and smoking cessation. Both LDL or and HDL cholesterol levels are affected differently by smoking.
Nicotine
Nicotine, the primary component of cigarette smoke, impacts blood vessel health that leads to the development of atherosclerosis, or build up of cholesterol streaks in the blood vessels. Nicotine injures blood vessel walls that allows for LDL cholesterol to attach itself to the lining of blood vessels, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The accumulation of LDL cholesterol in blood vessels leads to narrowing of blood vessels, which decreases blood flow to your legs, arms, heart and brain.
LDL Cholesterol
Smoking is linked to elevated LDL cholesterol levels. Ideal levels of LDL cholesterol is below 100 mg/dL, especially if you have a history of diabetes or heart disease as stated by the American Heart Association. Near optimal levels of LDL cholesterol is below 130 mg/dL. Smoking is associated with higher oxidized levels of LDL cholesterol inside your artery walls, according to Massachusetts Institute of Technology. By itself, elevated LDL cholesterol isn't a risk factor for heart disease. When oxidized by free radicals, LDL cholesterol builds up in blood vessel walls that lead to hardening and narrowing of blood vessels that increases your risk of having a stroke or heart attack.
HDL Cholesterol
Smoking is associated with lower levels of HDL or good cholesterol levels. For heart protective effects, HDL cholesterol is recommended to be above 50 mg/dL, ideally 60 mg/dL. Levels below 40 mg/dL are associated with smoking. HDL cholesterol's role in the body is removing unwanted or excessive LDL cholesterol that is circulating in the body. The higher your HDL cholesterol is, the less accumulation of oxidized LDL cholesterol in your blood vessels. Smoking cessation is associated with higher levels of HDL cholesterol, according to Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Stress is another component to your lifestyle that can lower HDL cholesterol levels. Smokers often use their smoking habit as a means of managing stress which further reduces HDL cholesterol levels.
Risk of Smoking
Smoking has additives that impact your cardiovascular health, in addition to making negative changes to your cholesterol levels. Nicotine, carbon monoxide and tar contribute to inflammation in the body, oxidation of fats in the blood stream and constriction of blood vessels that lead to poor oxygen flow in your body, according to Harris. Decreased oxygen flow is detrimental to brain and heart cells eventually leading to a stroke or heart when blood is completely blocked by a blood clot. Smokers have a higher incidence of heart disease and cholesterol abnormalities than non-smokers.
