High cholesterol and hypertension have become common problems these days. Surprisingly, the problem isn't restricted to older adults; many cases have also been reported in youngsters. While there are several factors responsible for high cholesterol, such as diet and lifestyle, a surprising one is a season. Yes, cholesterol levels vary with seasons.
This blog sheds light on the connection between cholesterol and seasons, some common cholesterol symptoms, and how you can deal with the same. So, read in full.
Why does Cholesterol Level Vary According to Season?
Cholesterol is a greasy substance that can harm your health when present above a threshold level in the blood. According to an article in the Journal of AMA (American Medical Association), cholesterol levels do change with the seasons and reach their highest level in the winter.
Comparatively, a lower level has been reported in the summer and spring seasons. The exact mechanism, however, is not clear. The research is still going on to know the factor that is involved in cholesterol level fluctuation.
What are the High Cholesterol Warning Signs? 
The signs and symptoms of high cholesterol may go unnoticed at first. However, if you have been experiencing the following symptoms for a long time, consult a doctor without delay.
Bloating
It's quite common in people suffering from high cholesterol problems. Even after less intake of food, your stomach feels bloated. Bad cholesterol production is merely a result of eating fried, fatty food in excess. To avoid such digestive issues, it's important to know what to eat and what to avoid.
Bad Breath
It's another common symptom of high cholesterol levels. Your body produces Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDL), which is called bad cholesterol. The LDL is not easily dissolved in the blood and instead adheres to the inner lining of the arteries. This improper digestion of cholesterol results in a foul odor and bad breath.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is a serious warning sign of high cholesterol that you must not ignore. Mild to severe chest pain can make you lose your life if left untreated. This pain, however, follows cardiac arrest. High cholesterol affects blood circulation and puts pressure on arteries, resulting in chest pain and hypertension.
Headache
High cholesterol can also cause headaches and dizziness. Consult a doctor if you've been suffering from a severe headache for several days. Furthermore, there may also be signs of nausea, tiredness, and stress, don't be hard on yourself, and seek help before anything serious comes up.
Winter Foods That Increase Cholesterol Levels 
While fried foods and sweet treats are the highlights of winter, they unknowingly harm your health. Major foods that often result in high cholesterol and hypertension are listed:
- Junk food such as burgers, fries, etc.
- Processed meats
- Desserts such as ice creams, pastries, etc.
- Excess of cheese
- Unsaturated fatty food
Winter is the high time when your cholesterol level rises, and you witness several changes in your body's normal functioning. Winter, indeed, demands more intake of calories. Yet, you need to be cautious to prevent high BP and high cholesterol-like problems.
How can you Regulate your Cholesterol Level Naturally? 
A sedentary lifestyle and poor eating habits greatly increase the risk of high cholesterol and high blood pressure. However, to lower cholesterol naturally, all you need to include is the following:
- Workout: Winter doesn't only make you eat more but also reduces your physical activity. You tend to rest and stay indoors rather than go on a run or walk. Right? However, even if it's hard to exercise in the winter, it surely is the best way to control cholesterol.
- Healthy diet: Healthy diet in winter help in regulating your cholesterol level significantly. Foods that help improve good cholesterol in your body include oats, nuts, garlic, legumes, fenugreek seeds, citrus fruits, etc.
- Increase Fiber intake: Increasing fiber intake in your diet is another best way to reduce cholesterol in winter. Fiber consumption lowers bad cholesterol by decreasing its uptake into the blood. Moreover, the best sources of fiber are beans, oats, and fruits such as apples.
- Reduce salt intake:  A high salt intake in your diet can raise your blood pressure. High blood pressure eventually increases the risk of several heart diseases. Limiting the amount of sodium in your diet can help you keep your blood pressure and cholesterol levels under control.
- Eat fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids: Salmon and tuna are high in good cholesterol and make an excellent addition to your diet. Omega-3 fatty acid-rich fish can help prevent blood clotting and inflammation, reducing the chances of a heart attack. This simply aids in raising HDL levels while decreasing LDL levels. Vegetarians can get their omega 3 rom nuts and seeds such as walnuts, almonds, flax seeds, sunflower seeds. etc.
Note: Excess intake can harm the body, whether it is a food of good or bad cholesterol. So, be careful when you include any food product in your diet. And if you have skin or other allergies, seek professional advice.
Treatment of High Cholesterol 
The treatment includes medicines that your doctor recommends. Besides this, you can make certain lifestyle changes to help you deal with such problems.
Besides, if you are suffering from obesity, try to lose weight and follow a balanced diet. These efforts would aid the process of your recovery from several heart-related diseases.
Takeaway  
High cholesterol has an adverse effect on your body. It can surely, cost you a lot in terms of health. If you are already suffering from hypertension and high cholesterol, don't take your condition lightly. You are in charge of your diet and well-being. Do what is right for your health and try to seek medical assistance if your cholesterol level cannot be controlled naturally. Also, communicate the details with your friends and family in case any of them shows symptoms of high cholesterol.
Get yourself tested by opting Heart Health Comprehensive Package to keep an eye on your current health status, so that you can minimize the risks by making relevant changes in your lifestyle.
