Cholesterol levels - Balance Medical Clinic

What are Cholesterol Levels?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. We need some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. There are two main types:

• LDL cholesterol, also called "bad" cholesterol. Too much can increase your chance for heart disease and stroke.
• HDL cholesterol, also called "good" cholesterol. This may lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.

When we talk about cholesterol levels, we're referring to the amount of each type of cholesterol in your blood. Here are general guidelines for healthy cholesterol levels:

• Total cholesterol level: Below 200 mg/dL is considered desirable for healthy adults. Borderline high is between 200-239 mg/dL.
• LDL cholesterol level: Below 100 mg/dL is ideal. 130-159 mg/dL is borderline high, and 160-189 mg/dL is high.
• HDL cholesterol level: 60 mg/dL and above is optimal. Below 40 mg/dL is considered too low.

High cholesterol doesn't have obvious symptoms. You usually have to get a blood test to know your numbers. Over time, elevated LDL cholesterol can lead to a buildup of plaque in your arteries. This condition is called atherosclerosis and makes you more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

So what causes high cholesterol? It's a mix of factors:

• Family history - Your genetics can make you predisposed to higher cholesterol.
• Poor diet - Eating lots of saturated and trans fats found in red meat, full-fat dairy, fried food, etc.
• Being overweight
• Lack of exercise
• Smoking cigarettes
• Diabetes
• Certain medications

If your cholesterol is creeping up, don't panic! There's plenty you can do to get it under control:

• Lose extra weight
• Exercise more - Even light activity helps
• Cut back on saturated fats and eliminate trans fats
• Eat more fiber - Found in fruits, veggies, whole grains
• Take medication if needed - Statins are commonly prescribed

Over time, a heart-healthy lifestyle and medications (if applicable) can get those HDL numbers up and the LDL numbers back where they belong. Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels takes commitment, but it's a smart move to lower cardiovascular risks.

Please visit Balance Medical Clinic if you have any questions or concerns about your cholesterol levels.