High Cholesterol Despite a Balanced Lifestyle: What to Do?
Good morning, a few months ago I started taking Omegor Vitality 1000 mg, 3 per day. I am 49 years old, I exercise 3 times a week, and I have reduced my intake of fatty foods, but after a blood test, I noticed that my total cholesterol, which was previously 215, has actually increased to 220. Could you explain what the cause might be and if it is worth continuing the use of Omegor, considering the results? Thank you, best regards.
Dear Yuri,
The change in cholesterol levels that you reported cannot be considered significant. Certainly, your lifestyle is healthy, with regular physical activity and a diet free from fatty foods.
Therefore, supplementation with Omega-3 fatty acids can only bring benefits. However, I would like to give you a few additional tips that could help you better manage your serum cholesterol levels. A reduced intake of fatty foods is certainly useful.
To counteract the increase in cholesterol, it is also necessary to be careful with high glycemic index foods: these trigger an insulin release that stimulates the production of cholesterol by the liver.
If in your diet you have eliminated fats, but increased the intake of refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta, rice, biscuits, and sugary drinks), it is possible that your insulin levels are higher, which consequently also increases your cholesterol levels. I recommend that you:
- Avoid drastic changes to your diet;
- Limit refined carbohydrates;
- Prefer less refined carbohydrates, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, foods rich in fiber and slow-release starches that are absorbed more slowly and help maintain stable insulin levels.
I hope I have provided you with a comprehensive answer, and I remain available for further clarification.
Best regards,
Dr. Rosaria Ramondino, Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist
