Hypothyroidism
This is a condition whereby the thyroid gland is under active. When the thyroid cannot produce enough T4 and T3 hormones, metabolism slows down; consequently the ability to process cholesterol is also impaired. Studies have shown that subclinical or hidden hypothyroidism may be responsible for elevated cholesterol levels.
Possible symptoms of hypothyroidism include:
– Weight gain
– Fatigue
– Depression
– Dry skin
– Constipation
– Sensitivity to cold
– Muscle cramps, joint pain
If you suspect that you have an under active thyroid gland, ask your doctor for a blood test checking your levels of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH). This is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain, and if elevated, your thyroid gland may not be able to produce enough hormones.
Stress
Studies have shown that chronic stress raises the risk of heart disease. One possible reason is that psychological and physical stress lead to the release of adrenaline; this causes the release of inflammatory cytokines such as IL6 and IL10. These are a kind of immune system chemical released by white blood cells which promote inflammation in the body, and can promote the development of atherosclerosis. The hormone Cortisol is also released in response to stress. Chronically elevated levels of Cortisol are related to high cholesterol, high triglycerides, high blood pressure, abdominal obesity and glucose intolerance. Glucose intolerance is a major risk factor for diabetes, and diabetics have higher rates of heart disease. Cortisol is a steroid hormone made out of cholesterol, therefore the more stressed we get, the more cholesterol gets made in our body.
When people feel stressed, they often adopt unhealthy habits. Overeating, binging on sweets, smoking and drinking more alcohol are common ways people deal with stress; each of these factors can raise our cholesterol levels.
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