For many people, cholesterol indicates something bad. Food labels advertise that they contain “ low” or “no” cholesterol, and having a high cholesterol level is unhealthy. But what is cholesterol? A waxy substance in your blood, cholesterol is made by the liver, and is used to convert vitamin D, manufacture hormones, support cell membranes, and help with digestion. And even though we divide the types of cholesterol into “good” and “bad,” even bad cholesterol serves a purpose, at the right level. Are you confused? Keep reading, and we’ll explain.
HDL cholesterol is what is known as the “good” cholesterol. HDL stands for high density lipoprotein, and lipoproteins are particles made of fat and protein, responsible for carrying cholesterol through the body. HDL cholesterol goes from the arteries, cells, and tissues back to the liver, carrying LDL cholesterol with it, so that it can be removed from the body. When LDL cholesterol is too high, not enough of it is removed.
LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, carry cholesterol from the liver to the cells and tissues of the body. There, the cholesterol is used to build cell membranes, facilitate nerve function, and produce hormones. So why is it called “bad” cholesterol? The problem arises when there is too much of this type of cholesterol in the blood. When there is too much LDL cholesterol in the body, it builds up in the arteries, narrowing the arteries, causing chest pain, and increasing the risk of heart attack. And while necessary cholesterol is made by the liver, excess cholesterol can come from a diet high in salt and fatty foods.
Since excess LDL cholesterol can come from food, changing the diet is the first step in naturally maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Eating a balanced diet with a limited fat intake is very effective in promoting healthy cholesterol levels. There are other lifestyle modifications that can help, too, like exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol consumption, and refraining from the use of tobacco.
Checking cholesterol is done with a simple blood test. It’s recommended that healthy adults have their cholesterol checked every four to six years for everyone ages 20 to 39 and more often for adults ages 40 to 75. For people with additional risk factors, like heart disease, diabetes, or a family history of cholesterol issues, it’s important to talk to a doctor about having it checked more frequently. A cholesterol test gives several numbers, because it measures total cholesterol, HDL and LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Triglycerides are the most common fat in the body, and a high level, especially combined with unbalanced cholesterol, can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. When you get your test results these different numbers will be broken down. Total cholesterol should be below 200, with LDL below 100 and HDL at 60 or higher.
Sometimes, lifestyle changes are not enough. Fortunately, there are medications that can help. A cardiologist can give you expert guidance, coming up with a personalized treatment plan and adjusting it as needed to help you keep your cholesterol at healthy levels.
For help managing vascular conditions like high blood pressure and high cholesterol, you can trust the talented team of skilled professionals at Twin Lakes Heart & Vein Center to help you care for your heart. Since 1993, we have been providing cardiovascular care for the community in Boca Raton, offering unparalleled care through a preventative, patient-centered approach. In order to help our patients achieve a heart-healthy lifestyle, we are committed to building life-long relationships with you, utilizing leading-edge technologies to help. By taking a comprehensive heart health approach to heart disease, we provide enhanced outcomes for a wide range of cardiovascular and vascular conditions. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us through our website.
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