Does thick blood mean high blood lipids?

No, these are two different concepts.

Hyperlipidemia refers to the fat content in the blood, especially cholesterol and triglyceride levels exceeding the normal range. Hyperlipidemia may lead to atherosclerosis and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Blood viscosity refers to the resistance of blood to flow, which depends on the number and size of red blood cells in the blood, the concentration of plasma proteins, and the chemical composition of the blood. Increased blood viscosity may affect blood circulation, slow down blood flow, and increase the risk of thrombosis.

Increased blood viscosity may be caused by a variety of factors, including: increased red blood cell count (such as plethora), increased plasma protein concentration (such as hyperfibrinogenemia), high blood sugar, high blood lipids, dehydration, etc. High blood lipids may cause increased blood viscosity because fat particles in the blood may increase blood flow resistance.

However, increased blood viscosity does not always mean high blood lipids and may be caused by other factors. If you are concerned about your blood viscosity or blood lipid levels, you should consult a doctor for a professional examination and evaluation. The doctor may recommend blood tests, including blood lipid level tests and blood viscosity tests, to determine if there is a problem and provide appropriate treatment recommendations based on the results.

Author | Master of Doubao Food Processing and Safety

Review | Ruan Guangfeng, Deputy Director of Kexin Food and Health Information Exchange Center