Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death among women, and high cholesterol plays a significant role in increasing the risk. Although the condition is often associated with men, women are equally vulnerable, especially as they approach menopause. Understanding the connection between high cholesterol and heart disease is crucial for prevention and management.
How High Cholesterol Impacts Heart Health in Women?
Generally, women have lower cholesterol levels during their reproductive years, but once they enter the menopause phase, their cholesterol levels can increase, which is related to changes in estrogen levels.
Cholesterol is a wax-like substance essential that the body makes naturally. This fat compound is vital for producing hormones, and vitamin D and for building cell membranes. However, an imbalance—especially high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or "bad" cholesterol—can lead to plaque buildup in arteries. This condition, known as atherosclerosis, narrows and hardens the arteries, increasing the risk of:
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Coronary artery disease (CAD)
Women Face Unique Challenges:
Hormonal Fluctuation
Before menopause, estrogen offers some protection by maintaining levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or "good" cholesterol. After menopause, LDL levels often rise while HDL levels decline, increasing cardiovascular risks. The fluctuation can differ as much as 19% over the progress of the menstrual cycle and obese women have the highest fluctuation.
Also Read: Cholesterol: Is It Good Or Bad?
Misdiagnosis
Symptoms of heart disease in women, like fatigue or nausea, can differ from classic chest pain, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment.
Prevalence in India
The prevalence of high cholesterol and heart disease among Indian women is on the rise due to:
With urbanization eating patterns and dietary choices have highly changed. Increased consumption of unhealthy fats processed and junk foods, and sedentary lifestyles contribute to high cholesterol levels.
Many women in India remain unaware of their cholesterol levels and the associated risks of heart disease.
Rising rates of obesity, diabetes, and hypertension compound the problem.
A 2023 study revealed that 25% of urban Indian women have high cholesterol, with rural areas catching up due to changing dietary patterns. Despite these figures, many women do not undergo routine lipid profile tests.
Risk Factors
Generally, men are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease than women. But several factors can elevate a woman’s risk, mainly during pregnancy and post-menopause. Some of the risk factors include:
- Age
- Family history of heart disease
- Smoking
- Physical inactivity
- Obesity or overweight
- Unhealthy dietary habits like eating foods rich in trans and saturated fats
- Familial hypercholesterolemia
- Diabetes
- Uncontrolled blood pressure
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)
- Early menopause
- Preeclampsia
- Gestational diabetes
Ways to Manage and Prevent High Cholesterol
Heart-Healthy Diet
Eat a balanced diet and add plenty of fiber-rich foods like oats, beans, and whole grains.
Include healthy fats from nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish.
Avoid trans fats and limit saturated fats by reducing fried and processed foods.
Stay Physically Active
Stay active and aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly. Activities like brisk walking, swimming, and yoga can improve HDL levels and overall cardiovascular health.
Maintain Weight
Reducing weight by at least 5–10% can significantly lower cholesterol levels.
Regular Health Check-Ups
Women should prioritize annual health screenings, including lipid profile tests, especially after age 40 or post-menopause.
Also Read: Lipid Profile Test: Why It Is Done And What To Expect
Manage Stress and Sleep
Chronic stress can impact cholesterol levels. Engage in mindfulness practices like meditation, yoga and breathing exercises to stay calm. Aim to get at least 7–8 hours of quality sleep daily.
Conclusion
High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for heart disease in women. Awareness, early diagnosis, and proactive management are crucial to reducing this risk. Women need to adopt healthy dietary habits, increase physical activity, and undergo regular health screenings, which can help immensely in protecting heart health.
( This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu:
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specializing in tailoring personalized diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasizing the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing a wide array of topics including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
References:
Cholesterol, lipoproteins, and coronary heart disease in women
T L Bush 1, L P Fried, E Barrett-Connor
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
Cardiovascular Disease in Women: Clinical Perspectives
Mariana Garcia 1, Sharon L Mulvagh 1, C Noel Bairey Merz 2, Julie E Buring 3,4, JoAnn E Manson 3,4
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4834856/
