Diabetes and Cholesterol

The body produces cholesterol, a waxy molecule that is also present in several animal-based diets. HDL-C, or "good" cholesterol, and LDL-C, or "bad" cholesterol, are two types of fat that are measured by blood cholesterol levels. Although cholesterol is crucial for good health, having too high of LDL-C levels can lead to clogged or restricted arteries. Unfortunately, elevated cholesterol is more common in those with diabetes, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

1. LDL cholesterol is considered to be "bad" cholesterol.

A increased risk of CVD is linked to having a high LDL-C level. However, your LDL cholesterol level shouldn't be the primary determinant of treatment to fend against heart attacks and strokes. You can have higher LDL cholesterol if you eat a diet rich in trans and saturated fats.

2. "Good" cholesterol is high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.

Higher HDL-C levels are linked to a lower risk of CVD. You are more likely to develop heart disease if you have low HDL cholesterol. The levels of HDL cholesterol are also lowered by genetic factors, Type 2 diabetes, and some medications, including beta-blockers and anabolic steroids. Sedentary lifestyles, excess weight, and smoking all reduce HDL cholesterol.

3. Triglycerides

The most prevalent kind of fat in the body is triglyceride. Age and sex affect normal triglyceride levels differently. The risk of heart attack, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and stroke is increased by atherosclerosis, the build-up of fatty deposits in arterial walls, which is associated with high triglyceride levels and low HDL cholesterol or high LDL cholesterol.

How does diabetes impact lipid levels?

Diabetes increases the risk for heart disease and stroke by lowering "good" cholesterol levels while raising triglycerides and "bad" cholesterol levels. Diabetic dyslipidaemia is the name given to this condition.

If you have diabetic dyslipidaemia, your lipid profile is changing negatively. People are more susceptible to atherosclerosis and early-onset coronary heart disease as a result of this combination.