A doctor has debunked popular myths about "bad" cholesterol

Senior Researcher at the Department of Endocrinology of MONIKA Ilya Barsukov from Vladimir University revealed popular myths about "bad" cholesterol.

In an interview with Radio 1 on March 31, the expert noted that genetics remains a complex and unpredictable factor: even if a "protective" variant of a gene is more common in a certain ethnic group, this does not guarantee its presence in a particular person. Conversely, the absence of such a gene does not mean inevitable health problems.

According to him, due to the fact that genes are transmitted unpredictably, it is not worth focusing only on statistics - without genetic analysis, such conclusions are unreliable. He stressed that instead it is important to undergo regular medical examinations, regardless of origin.

The expert added that some genes can reduce risks, while others can enhance them, but it is impossible to figure this out on your own. He recommended regular checkups: based on the results of the tests, the doctor will determine whether a healthy lifestyle is sufficient or additional therapy is required. At the same time, modern drugs can effectively control risks, especially if treatment is started on time — even before serious complications such as a heart attack or stroke.

The specialist also noted that the key risk factors are not only heredity, but also lifestyle, primarily overweight, obesity and smoking.

The newspaper Kommersant, citing a study by a Russian genetic company, wrote on March 31 that some Russians have genetic protection against high levels of "bad" cholesterol, thanks to a variant of the APOE gene, which reduces the risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation. This genetic variant is found in 15.95% of Russians. Ukrainians (15.27%), Yakuts (14.91%) and Belarusians (14.79%) also had relatively high rates, Moscow 24 notes.

On March 27, Natalya Lavrentieva, a general practitioner, stated that buckwheat is good for blood vessels and skin freshness. The high content of quercetin and rutin makes buckwheat useful for strengthening capillaries and reducing the risk of rosacea, notes 360.ru .

The day before, on March 26, therapist Elena Perchenko said that trans fats can be called provocateurs of "bad" cholesterol. According to her, foods high in saturated fats are dangerous. These are also products like sausage, sausages, butter, cheeses, cream. Products with trans fats are fast food, as well as fried, processed foods in oil, writes RT.

Epidemiologist Gennady Onishchenko announced on March 21 the risk of an epidemic of obesity in the country. In this regard, he supported the idea of including a dietitian in the medical examination program. Experts emphasize that obesity is a full—fledged diagnosis with serious health consequences.

In January, scientists revealed which foods really affect blood cholesterol levels, and which have long been considered harmful without sufficient justification. New data show that the key role is played not by dietary cholesterol, but by the content of saturated fats and fiber in the diet.

In October, Lyudmila Denisenko, an expert nutritionist, named products that help reduce "bad" cholesterol. She attributed avocado, garlic and small sea fish to them, the website writes. kp.ru .

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