People living with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) are not at high risk of developing cardiovascular disease, unless they have independent risk factors such as hypertension and metabolic disease. However, people with PBC have been shown to have significantly higher levels of cholesterol, also known as hyperlipidemia.
PBC is a rare, chronic, autoimmune liver disease that affects the small bile ducts within the liver. So far, there is no exact cause and no cure, and it mainly affects women (nine out of 10 cases) aged between 35 and 55 years old. Identified risk factors for developing PBC are genetic (e.g., family history) or environmental (e.g., smoking).
As the bile ducts progressively break down, bile builds up in the liver, damaging liver tissue and function, leading to fibrosis and cirrhosis and liver failure in some cases. Treatment slows the progression of PBC, but the only real cure is a liver transplant.
People living with PBC experience symptoms of fatigue, itchy skin, abdominal and joint pain, brain fog, jaundice and dry eyes. While these symptoms can take time to develop, their onset can significantly impact sleep, quality of life and work and family routines.
What is hyperlipidemia?
Hyperlipidemia occurs when you have a high level of cholesterol or triglycerides in your blood. High levels of cholesterol means you have too many lipids (fats) in your blood, and it can increase your risk for developing heart disease.
There are two kinds of cholesterol: bad and good. The “bad” cholesterol can lead to a buildup of fatty deposits in your blood vessels, restricting blood flow in your arteries.
Making heart-healthy choices
Adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle is key to managing your PBC symptoms, supporting your liver function and maintaining quality of life. It can also be an important way of keeping your cholesterol low and your heart healthy.
Reduce saturated fats: choose lean meat, find alternatives to red meat and eat lower-fat dairy options. Avoid processed foods high in sugar and butter.
Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (or unsaturated fats): commonly found in mackerel, salmon, herring, oysters, nuts and flaxseeds or in dietary supplements.
Increase your intake of soluble fiber: commonly found in oats, avocados, peas, beans, brussels sprouts, citrus fruits, apples, carrots and barley.
The importance of exercise
Eating well is not enough; adding regular exercise is also essential to maintaining your heart health.
Exercise can help increase your “good” cholesterol levels. Your capacity to exercise will depend on your overall health and the severity of PBC symptoms, but even exercising in short intervals will be of benefit.
A nutritious diet, regular physical exercise, quitting or refraining from smoking, losing weight and reducing alcohol consumption will all contribute to lowering your cholesterol and helping your liver work optimally.
If your cholesterol levels remain high, your doctor may prescribe medication to help bring them down.
