A good patient history is key!!
If we don’t ask about lifestyle and eating habits, as clinicians we can be a detriment to a patient’s health with the wrong advice.
Undernourishment can lead to high cholesterol levels through several interconnected mechanisms:
Liver Function: When you’re undernourished, your liver may produce more low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as “bad” cholesterol. This happens because the liver tries to compensate for the lack of nutrients by increasing cholesterol production.
Imbalanced Diet: Undernourishment often results from a diet lacking in essential nutrients, such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. A diet low in fiber can lead to poor digestion and absorption of fats, which can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels.
Insulin Resistance: Undernourishment can lead to insulin resistance, where the body’s cells become less responsive to insulin. This can result in higher blood sugar levels and an increased production of LDL cholesterol by the liver.
Inflammation: Undernutrition can weaken the immune system, leading to chronic inflammation. Inflammation can damage blood vessels and promote the accumulation of cholesterol-rich plaque in arteries, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.
Lack of Antioxidants: A diet lacking in antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables can make the body more susceptible to oxidative stress. Oxidized LDL cholesterol is more likely to become trapped in arterial walls and contribute to plaque buildup.
By understanding this mechanism and learning more about our patients lifestyle habits, we can turn this around and promote better health outcomes by educating our patients on proper nourishment.
Farah Myers is a family nurse practitioner with Cool Creek Family Health in Carmel, Indiana. At Cool Creek Family Health, we’re your dedicated healthcare partner. With our direct primary care model, you get to know your healthcare provider and they you. Designed for easy 2-way communication and follow-up, together, we’ll prioritize your health journey and work towards your best self. Say goodbye to the confusion of self-diagnosis and conflicting advice. Contact us today for a meet and greet and let’s make your health a priority again.
