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 main types of cholesterol:
LDL cholesterol - Sometimes called "bad" cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol raise your risk for heart disease and stroke.
HDL cholesterol - Often called "good" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries.
Your cholesterol levels are measured through a simple blood test. When your doctor orders this test, the laboratory will measure:
The ideal cholesterol levels are:
| Cholesterol Type | Ideal Level |
|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | Less than 200 mg/dL |
| LDL cholesterol | Less than 100 mg/dL |
| HDL cholesterol | 60 mg/dL or higher |
| Triglycerides | Less than 150 mg/dL |
High cholesterol usually doesn't have any symptoms. But over time, it can increase your risk for heart disease. Some factors that can raise your cholesterol include:
To help lower high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes like:
| Lifestyle Change | Description |
|---|---|
| Losing weight | If overweight |
| Exercising regularly | Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week |
| Quitting smoking | Smoking can lower HDL cholesterol and increase LDL cholesterol |
| Eating a healthy diet | Consume a diet low in saturated and trans fats |
Medications like statins may also be prescribed. At Rejuvenate Wellness, we take a holistic approach to heart health. In addition to lifestyle changes, we offer advanced testing to get to the root cause of high cholesterol. Our expert physicians create customized treatment plans involving bioidentical hormone therapy, supplements, and nutrition plans to help patients reach optimal cholesterol levels.
Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is important to reduce your risk for heart disease. Work with your doctor regularly to monitor your cholesterol. Make lifestyle changes as needed to keep your levels in a healthy range. Your heart will thank you!
In conclusion, understanding your cholesterol levels and taking steps to maintain them within a healthy range is crucial for overall heart health. By making positive lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and not smoking, you can help lower your risk of heart disease. If you have concerns about your cholesterol levels, consult with your healthcare provider or consider seeking the expertise of a specialized clinic like Rejuvenate Wellness for a comprehensive approach to heart health.