High cholesterol despite balanced lifestyle: what to do?

Good morning, a few months ago I started taking Omegor Vitality 1000 mg, 3 a day. I am 49 years old, I exercise 3 times a week, I have reduced my intake of particularly fatty foods, but after a blood test I noticed that my total cholesterol, which used to be 215, has even increased to 220. Could you explain to me what could be the cause and whether it is worth it to continue taking Omegor, given the results? Thank you, kind regards.

Dear Yuri, 

the change in cholesterol that she reported cannot be considered significant. Surely hers is a healthy lifestyle with regular physical activity and a diet free of fatty foods.

Therefore, supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids can only be beneficial. However, I would like to give you some additional insights that may enable you to better control your serum cholesterol levels. A reduced intake of fatty foods is certainly helpful. 

To counteract the rise in cholesterol, it is also necessary to be careful of foods with a high glycemic index: these induce a release of insulin that stimulates cholesterol production by the liver. 

If you have eliminated fat in your diet, but increased your intake of refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta, rice, cookies, and sugary drinks), it may be that your insulin levels are higher, consequently your cholesterol levels as well. I recommend that you:

• Do not make drastic changes in his diet;
• Limit consumption of refined carbohydrates;
• Prefer less refined, whole grains, fruits and vegetables, foods rich in fiber and slow-release starches that are absorbed more slowly and keep insulin levels constant.

I hope I have given you a comprehensive answer and remain available for any clarification. 

Best regards 

Dr. Rosaria Ramondino Pharmacist and Pharmaceutical Chemist