Cholesterol plays an essential role in our health, especially during pregnancy. Increased cholesterol levels are called hypercholesterolemiaOccurs when there is excess cholesterol in the blood. While cholesterol is essential for bodily functions, excessive amounts can clog arteries and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. So it is important to maintain balanced cholesterol levels, especially when you are pregnant.

A basic blood test can tell if your cholesterol level is high. Cholesterol, a substance produced by the liver, is important for building healthy cells. It is classified into two types: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), often called “bad” cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), often called “good” cholesterol. Dr. Shilpa Eloor – Senior Consultant – Reproductive Medicine and High Risk Obstetrician, Milan Fertility Center Bengaluru shares that during pregnancy, it is normal for triglyceride and cholesterol levels to increase, as this is due to the growth of the baby and the production of hormones like progesterone and estrogen. Helps in. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic disorder that results in abnormally high levels of LDL cholesterol. Managing FH often requires medication to keep cholesterol levels under control.

While cholesterol levels normally fall between 120 and 190 milligrams per deciliter, during pregnancy, it can rise above 200 milligrams per deciliter.

During pregnancy, especially in the third trimester, cholesterol and triglyceride levels increase and usually return to pre-pregnancy levels after childbirth. This increase is associated with the production of placental hormones, particularly progesterone.

“High cholesterol levels are linked to an increased risk of pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and premature birth. However, there is no conclusive evidence that these increased levels have a negative impact on the baby,” explains Dr Shilpa.

Dr. Shilpa explains that during pregnancy, cholesterol medicines are not recommended. Women who were using such medicines before pregnancy should stop them. Instead, manage cholesterol through diet and lifestyle changes, provided there are no risk factors such as miscarriage, premature birth or high blood pressure.

1. Adopting a Mediterranean-style diet has many benefits.

2. Focus on including sources of unsaturated fat, including avocado, nuts, seeds and olive oil. These fats can increase the cholesterol profile by increasing HDL (good) cholesterol and reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

3. Eat less processed foods, high-fat meats and full-fat dairy items to reduce saturated fat intake. Stay away from trans fats, which can raise LDL cholesterol levels and are commonly found in many baked and fried foods.

4. An important factor in reducing LDL cholesterol levels is dietary fiber. Be sure to include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans in your diet. Foods containing soluble fiber such as beans and oats are particularly useful in this context.

5. Choose plant-based proteins, fish and chicken as lean protein sources. Omega-3 fatty acids, which promote heart health, make fatty fish like salmon and mackerel particularly beneficial.

6. Engage in moderate activities like walking, swimming or prenatal yoga to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, control weight, reduce the risk of gestational diabetes, and enhance cardiovascular and emotional well-being.

7. Regular cholesterol monitoring is an essential part of prenatal care. Your healthcare provider will probably check your levels as part of a routine evaluation.

8. During pregnancy, stress management is essential to maintain general health. Incorporate stress-reducing and health-promoting relaxation practices into your daily routine, such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle stretching.

9. Make sure you get enough rest to maintain your health during pregnancy.

Get the latest news live on Times Now with breaking news and top headlines from around the world.