Treating Hyperlipidemia

Treating Hyperlipidemia

Treatment varies based on blood lipid levels, risk factors and overall health. Lifestyle changes will often be suggested first. If lifestyle changes do not reduce LDL levels, or your doctor sees an increased risk for heart disease, medications may be prescribed. 

Lifestyle changes

Diet: 

·         reduce intake of saturated fats, total fats, and dietary cholesterol

·         Increase soluble fibers (oats, peas, beans, etc.)

·         Increase plant stanols and sterols (nuts, vegetables, oils, corn, etc.)

·         Increase omega-3 fatty acids (cod, salmon, sardines)

·         Lose weight

·         Stop smoking

Exercise:

ACSM recommendations suggest that, in order to maintain health and reduce the risk of chronic disease, the average healthy adult should exercise at:

Moderate intensity 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week

OR

Vigorous intensity 20 minutes a day, 3 days a week

 

And

8-10 strength training exercises, of 8-12 repetitions, twice a week

Benefits of improving diet and exercise habits

Reduce the risk of:

·         Cardiovascular disease

·         Type II Diabetes

·         Metabolic Syndrome

·         Some cancers (colon, breast)

·         Reduce fractures in bones

May improve:

·         Overall quality of life

·         Ability to manage arthritis pain

·         Mental health and mood

·         Ability to do daily living tasks

·         Chances of living longer

Medications

Even though medications may be prescribed by your doctor to treat hyperlipidemia, it is recommended that you still work to make lifestyle changes in conjunction to taking prescription medications.

·         Statins- Prevent liver from producing cholesterol (Lipitor, Zocor, Crestor, etc.)

·         Bile acid sequestrants- PREvent body from reabsorbing cholesterol in bile (Questran, colestid, Welchol, etc.)

·         Fibrates (Lopid, Tricor)

·         Niacin (Vitamin B5)