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High cholesterol during pregnancy
The body of the expectant mother is rebuilt to a different mode of operation. Therefore, high cholesterol during pregnancy is the norm, if it does not exceed the permissible limits. Thanks to analyzes, this indicator is easily tracked.
High cholesterol during pregnancy – normal or problem?
Cholesterol is a leride substance, it is necessary for the synthesis of vitamin D, it is involved in the production of immune cells and growth hormones. During pregnancy, its amount rises naturally, and after childbirth it drops to normal levels.
Moderately high cholesterol during pregnancy is normal
Without high cholesterol levels in the mother’s blood, fetal problems can begin. The woman herself begins to catch colds more often, her teeth, hair and nails suffer. Due to a decrease in the production of vitamin D, the absorption of calcium is impaired. This negatively affects bone density and muscle firmness.
With all the positive properties of cholesterol, it is important to ensure that its level does not exceed the permissible limits. During pregnancy, the indicators will be from 6 to 13 mmol / l. The older the woman, the higher this figure will be.
Symptoms for which you should consult a specialist:
- cholesterol levels are 2-2,5 times higher than the pre-pregnancy level;
- headaches and nausea after 12 weeks;
- high blood pressure;
- general health worsens.
If the indicators turn out to be higher than normal, then you need to take measures to lower cholesterol.
How to lower high cholesterol during pregnancy?
During pregnancy, it is difficult to carry out any treatment, including lowering high cholesterol. Most drugs are contraindicated in women in position, they pass the placental barrier and can seriously harm the fetus. Therefore, a safe diet is used for treatment.
The diet is prescribed by the attending physician and involves the rejection of the following foods:
- yolks;
- pork and lamb;
- animal fat;
- butter and cream;
- margarine;
- chocolate;
- roast.
At the same time, foods that normalize blood counts must be included in the diet:
- garlic;
- carrot;
- apples;
- greenery;
- citrus;
- slaughter;
- red fish;
- nuts;
- liquid vegetable oils.
In addition to a diet, cholesterol decoctions will be useful to normalize cholesterol. When choosing them, be sure to consult a gynecologist, some herbs cause spasms of smooth muscles. Adequate physical activity will be of added benefit.
During pregnancy, it is important to monitor your cholesterol level. If it exceeds the individual norm by more than 2 times, you need to switch to a special diet.