Your cholesterol levels are more than a routine medical test. Stay heart-healthy by knowing what your cholesterol numbers mean and how to keep them in check. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease. For that reason, each September celebrates Cholesterol Education Month as a reminder to keep your number in a healthy range.
So, what do all of the numbers mean? Let's simplify it.
What is measured?
A blood cholesterol screening looks at HDL cholesterol, which is the good cholesterol; LDL, the bad cholesterol; and your triglycerides.
A blood cholesterol screening looks at HDL cholesterol, which is the good cholesterol; LDL, the bad cholesterol; and your triglycerides.
The good
HDL is the good cholesterol your body needs to help keep cholesterol from building up in the arteries. Ideally, your HDL level should be over 60mg/dL.
HDL is the good cholesterol your body needs to help keep cholesterol from building up in the arteries. Ideally, your HDL level should be over 60mg/dL.
The bad
LDL represents the main source of cholesterol build-up and blockage in the arteries. Your LDL level should remain below 100 mg/dL.
LDL represents the main source of cholesterol build-up and blockage in the arteries. Your LDL level should remain below 100 mg/dL.
The ugly
Triglycerides are another form of fat in your blood. Your triglyceride levels should remain at 150 mg/dL or lower.
Triglycerides are another form of fat in your blood. Your triglyceride levels should remain at 150 mg/dL or lower.
The score
Your cholesterol level is calculated by adding your HDL plus your LDL plus 20 percent of your triglyceride level. A desirable cholesterol level is below 200 mg/dL, which lowers your risk for coronary heart disease. The higher your level, the higher your risk. Cholesterol levels at 240 mg/dL and above are considered to be high blood cholesterol.
Your cholesterol level is calculated by adding your HDL plus your LDL plus 20 percent of your triglyceride level. A desirable cholesterol level is below 200 mg/dL, which lowers your risk for coronary heart disease. The higher your level, the higher your risk. Cholesterol levels at 240 mg/dL and above are considered to be high blood cholesterol.
The choices
When you have high cholesterol, you physician may prescribe medication. However, you can help keep your levels in check with these lifestyle choices:
When you have high cholesterol, you physician may prescribe medication. However, you can help keep your levels in check with these lifestyle choices:
· Exercising at least 30 minutes a day, three days a week
· Losing weight
· Eat a diet low in fat and rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein
If you need to lose weight, you do not have to do it alone. The Total Family Healthcare & Wellness Centers can help you reach your weight-loss goals. Call us today to schedule your free consultation.
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