Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. There are two types:
LDL cholesterol: Also called "bad" cholesterol, LDL carries cholesterol to your arteries and can build up in your arteries, making them hard and narrow. This can lead to heart attack and stroke.
HDL cholesterol: Also called "good" cholesterol, HDL picks up extra cholesterol and takes it back to your liver so your body can get rid of it. Higher levels of HDL protect against heart attack and stroke.
When getting your cholesterol tested, results typically include:
Total cholesterol - overall amount of cholesterol in your blood
LDL cholesterol
HDL cholesterol
Triglycerides - another form of fat in your blood
What are healthy and unhealthy cholesterol levels?
For LDL cholesterol:
Below 100 mg/dL is ideal
130-159 mg/dL is borderline high
160-189 mg/dL is high
190 mg/dL and above is very high
For HDL cholesterol:
Below 40 mg/dL (men) or 50 mg/dL (women) is poor
60 mg/dL and above is good
High cholesterol usually has no signs or symptoms. The only way to know if your cholesterol levels are unhealthy is to get tested.
You can help lower high cholesterol by:
Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds
Limiting processed foods, meat, cheese and baked goods
Exercising for 30 minutes most days
Taking medication if prescribed by your doctor
Ask your doctor how often to recheck your cholesterol. Getting tested regularly and making lifestyle changes helps lower your risk of stroke and heart disease down the road! Visit Balance Clinic for professional guidance on managing your cholesterol levels.