Beware! Recognize the Signs of High Cholesterol While Fasting and Discover Effective Ways to Prevent It!

Kapanlagi.com - The month of Ramadan is a blessed time for Muslims to observe fasting. Besides being a spiritual practice, fasting also has interesting health benefits, one of which is regulating cholesterol levels. However, did you know that fasting can also pose a risk of increasing cholesterol levels?

Even though the body does not receive food for more than 12 hours, the eating patterns during sahur and iftar significantly affect cholesterol levels in the blood. If we consume foods high in saturated fats, such as fried foods, coconut-based dishes, and sweet drinks, we can actually increase the levels of bad cholesterol, or what is known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL).

This can pose a serious threat to health if we are not aware of it and do not take appropriate preventive measures. Unfortunately, high cholesterol often does not show prominent symptoms. Therefore, it is important for us to recognize some physical signs that may indicate that our cholesterol levels are rising during fasting. Let’s take care of our health during this holy month!

1. 1. Frequent Headaches and Shoulder Pain

One of the early signals that your cholesterol may be soaring during fasting is the onset of headaches, especially in the back of the head or neck area. This could be a sign of blockage in the blood vessels due to cholesterol buildup. A study published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition (2021) revealed that increased levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood can narrow the arteries, thus disrupting blood flow to the brain. When blood flow is obstructed, pressure in the blood vessels increases and triggers headaches.

Not only that, but pain and stiffness in the shoulders and neck can also be signals of high cholesterol levels, caused by blockages in the blood vessels around the neck that create tension and discomfort. If you often experience these symptoms while fasting, be sure to check your cholesterol levels!

2. 2. Numbness and Tingling in Hands and Feet

The sensation of numbness or tingling that often affects the hands and feet can be a signal that your cholesterol levels are high. This occurs because blood flow is obstructed due to blockages in small blood vessels that should carry oxygen to body tissues. This condition is known as atherosclerosis, where blood vessels narrow due to the buildup of cholesterol plaques.

When blood supply to the extremities is disrupted, the nerves in that area lack oxygen, leading to feelings of numbness or tingling. This symptom is usually felt more strongly when the body remains still for too long, such as after suhoor or when sitting for an extended period after breaking the fast. To prevent this, it is important to stay active by doing light stretches while fasting.

3. 3. Small Bumps Appear on Joints

One often overlooked sign of high cholesterol is the appearance of small bumps on the joints, especially on the fingers, ankles, or heels. These bumps, known as xanthomas, form due to hardened cholesterol buildup under the skin after many years. Health experts indicate that this condition usually arises when LDL cholesterol levels in the body exceed normal limits, signaling that the body is trying to store excess cholesterol in fat tissues.

If these bumps begin to feel painful or grow larger, especially during fasting, it is important to consult a doctor immediately. Changing dietary habits by reducing saturated fat intake can be a first step to prevent the formation of these bumps and maintain body health.

4. 4. Easy Fatigue and Shortness of Breath

During fasting, feelings of fatigue may be considered normal, but if accompanied by shortness of breath, be cautious! This could be a signal that your cholesterol levels are high. Excess cholesterol can clog blood vessels, disrupt oxygen flow throughout the body, and make you feel weak and easily fatigued. In some situations, high cholesterol can even affect heart performance.

When blood flow to the heart is obstructed, the body has to work extra hard to pump blood, which can trigger shortness of breath, especially after breaking the fast or during light activities. If you frequently experience shortness of breath for no apparent reason while fasting, do not hesitate to check your cholesterol levels. Prompt action can prevent the risk of serious complications such as heart attacks or strokes.

5. 5. How to Prevent High Cholesterol While Fasting

To ensure your fasting goes smoothly without worrying about cholesterol spiking, there are several smart steps you can take! First, choose healthier foods by avoiding fried foods and coconut milk that are high in saturated fats; shift your focus to fresh vegetables and fiber-rich grains. Don't forget to stay active! Engage in light exercise such as walking after breaking your fast to keep your metabolism in top shape.

Additionally, manage your sleep pattern well; adequate sleep can help balance hormones that affect cholesterol levels. Also, make sure to drink enough water to keep your body well-hydrated, helping to naturally regulate blood fat levels. And for those with a history of high cholesterol, don't hesitate to regularly check your cholesterol levels to prevent serious complications. Happy fasting!

6. About Cholesterol During Fasting

Fasting turns out to have incredible benefits for health, especially in balancing cholesterol levels, as long as we apply a healthy diet. With fasting, we can increase good cholesterol (HDL) and lower bad cholesterol (LDL). However, be careful! Cholesterol levels can spike if we are tempted to consume saturated fat foods during breaking fast or sahur, combined with a lack of physical activity and the presence of metabolic syndrome.

To keep cholesterol levels stable during fasting, choose fiber-rich foods like green vegetables, fruits, grains, and healthy fatty fish like salmon and tuna. With the right choices, fasting can be a smart step for our heart health!

(kpl/frr)