Tucuruí Polyclinic warns about the risks of poor nutrition for disease development

Foto: Pedro Guerreiro / Ag. Pará

Silent and treacherous, high cholesterol is an enemy that often finds its greatest ally in poor nutrition. Frequent consumption of fried foods, processed meats, ultra-processed foods, and excess sugar promotes the accumulation of fat in the arteries, paving the way for serious diseases such as heart attack and stroke.

Attentive to these risks, the Lago de Tucuruí Polyclinic, a unit of the Government of Pará, reinforces to the population the importance of healthy habits, preventive exams, and multidisciplinary follow-up to avoid complications.

"High cholesterol, especially LDL — known as 'bad cholesterol' — can accumulate in the walls of the arteries, forming fatty plaques. This increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, and hypertension. It is a silent problem that can bring serious complications if not controlled in time," explains nutritionist Alynny Rayla de Sousa, who works at the unit.

The specialist reminds us that the biggest enemies of cholesterol control are on the everyday table. "Foods high in saturated and trans fats are the main villains. Processed meats like sausage, salami, and ham, fatty meats, fried foods, fast food, industrialized snacks, filled cookies, margarines, and ultra-processed products raise cholesterol levels. Excessive consumption of sugar and refined carbohydrates also indirectly contributes to this increase," she details.

On the other hand, some choices can help reduce levels. "Foods rich in soluble fibers — such as oats, fruits (apple, pear, orange), beans, and lentils — help reduce cholesterol. It is also recommended to consume nuts, fish rich in omega-3, olive oil, and seeds like flaxseed and chia. Additionally, staying hydrated and engaging in physical activity are essential habits," reinforces Alynny Rayla.

Treatment combined with diet: For those already using medications, such as statins, the specialist emphasizes that nutritional follow-up cannot be overlooked.
"Even when using medications, it is essential to maintain a balanced diet, with low saturated fat, plenty of fiber, and weight control. This way, we enhance the effects of treatment and avoid complications," asserts the professional.

The Lago de Tucuruí Polyclinic offers outpatient nutritional care aimed at patients with dyslipidemia (cholesterol changes), hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. During consultations, patients undergo nutritional assessment, receive individualized guidance, and, when necessary, a personalized meal plan.

In addition, the unit conducts laboratory tests that evaluate the lipid profile — total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides — essential for diagnosis and treatment monitoring.

Diagnosis

Prevention should start early. "From the age of 10, it is already recommended to have the first cholesterol test. People with a family history, obesity, diabetes, or hypertension need to be even more careful and have tests more frequently. In adults, the ideal is to monitor this at least once a year," advises Alynny Rayla.

One of the major concerns of specialists is the fact that high cholesterol does not present symptoms. "Because it is silent, we often only discover the problem when some complication has already occurred, such as a heart attack or stroke. Therefore, periodic exams are indispensable," she warns.

Follow-up

The work at the Polyclinic is done in an integrated manner. "Here, the patient has access to doctors and nutritionists who work together, guiding habit changes, encouraging physical activity, and, when necessary, prescribing medications. The goal is to promote health and prevent diseases in the long term. Regular follow-up is essential to control cholesterol and ensure a better quality of life," concludes the professional.

Service:
The Lago de Tucuruí Polyclinic is located in southeastern Pará and serves patients referred by the public health network.

Text by Roberta Paraense