Can Stress Raise Cholesterol?
A 2017 study found high rates of cholesterol in those experiencing occupational stress. Too much cholesterol (particularly ‘bad’ cholesterol like LDL cholesterol) can combine with other substances in your body. This, in turn, forms plaque. Plaque can then build up in your arteries which can lead to health complications—especially heart-related conditions. For example, those with irregular or long hours, like truck drivers or graveyard shift workers, were more predisposed to experience increased cholesterol levels. This is likely because job responsibilities are ongoing. Therefore, the stress would be classified as chronic rather than acute. You don’t have to be driving long distances or working overnight to experience psychological stress at work. Tight deadlines, emotionally taxing duties, or a toxic work environment can have an emotional impact.
Why Does Stress Raise Cholesterol Levels?
Now that we know chronic stress can raise cholesterol levels let’s look into why that is.
How to Reduce Your Cholesterol Levels
Good news! There are ways to reduce your cholesterol levels. Making healthier food choices, getting physical exercise, and managing your weight can help lower your cholesterol levels. If lifestyle changes don’t work, there are prescription drugs available that can assist you.
Exercise and Weight Management
One study showed that exercise does help to lower cholesterol levels. In fact, exercise type can target different forms of cholesterol.
Eat Healthier Foods
Another way to keep your stress down while also nourishing your body is to cook your own meals. Go to your local farmers market and pick out an array of colorful vegetables. Experiment with the different flavors and textures to create a dish. The practice of preparing your food is clinically proven to help boost one’s mental health and is even used in therapeutic settings.
Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs
Usually, cholesterol-lowering drugs are suggested if you’ve implemented lifestyle changes and your cholesterol levels are still too high. Or, if you’ve already suffered a stroke or heart attack, your doctor may recommend medication. Some cholesterol-lowering drugs include statins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and nicotinic acid.
How to Reduce Your Stress Levels
There are ways to keep your mind and body healthy, even when you’re stressed. All involve lifestyle shifts.
Relaxation Techniques
First, consider bringing some relaxation techniques into your daily life. This can be as simple as deep breathing. You can pause anytime during your day to bring oxygen in through your nose and out through your mouth. This option is excellent for those who have daily stressors in their work because it can be done anytime, anywhere.
Seek Help From a Therapist
If you’re sensing that your stress levels are indicative of greater internal challenges, it can’t hurt to seek out the support of a mental health professional. A licensed therapist can support you in making meaning out of the hurt you’ve experienced, and you can expect to reach develop coping tools to help you navigate stress.
