Fats in the bloodstream
Too much fat in the bloodstream, a condition known as hyperlipidaemia, can cause disease of the blood vessels, resulting in them becoming narrowed. This narrowing means an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. It can also lead to reduced blood supply to the legs which might cause pain on walking (claudication), gangrene of the toes and, in severe cases, loss of the foot or leg.
There are 2 main types of fats in the blood — cholesterol and triglycerides. Too much of either type can cause problems. The fats in the cholesterol group can be further divided into high-density, low density and very low density cholesterol. High density cholesterol has beneficial effects. The low density type is the one to cause the problems.
Blood fats may be raised for a number of reasons. Genetic (meaning it runs in your family) causes are quite common. Other reasons include:
- too much fat or sugar in the diet;
- liver, kidney and thyroid diseases;
- diabetes;
- being overweight; and
- drinking too much alcohol.
The dangers of increased blood fats in any one person must be considered in relation to other things about them, such as their age, smoking habits and family history. For example, a 70-year-old non-smoking woman who takes regular exercise may not need to worry if her cholesterol is a bit high, whereas a smoking inactive overweight 45-year-old should.
Diet and exercise are the main ways of reducing the amount of fat in the blood. High fibre foods, low fat dairy products (cheese and milk), reducing alcohol intake (in cases of high triglycerides) and avoiding fatty foods will help. Brisk exercise (enough to make you a bit puffed) for 30 minutes at least 3 times a week will also be of benefit.
For those with very high levels of fats, tablets may be necessary to reduce the amount of fat in the blood.
Last Reviewed: 26 February 2003
