Cholesterol Chronicles
illions of Americans are affected by high cholesterol, which is why it is important to understand the condition for effective prevention and treatment especially as it relates to heart disease. Here are the key things you need to know about cholesterol.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a molecule that is made in the liver and found in the blood. This molecule is made up of fats that play an important role in making cells and hormones in the body. However, imbalances in cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease.
What are the different types of cholesterol?
There are three types of cholesterol that you can expect to see with your blood results:
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) — this is universally referred to as the “bad cholesterol”. When LDL levels are too high, this can lead to plaque (build up of fat molecules) in your arteries. Arteries are similar to roads, these are the networks that blood travels through to reach organs. Too many LDL cholesterol plaques can cause a block in these roads, making it harder for blood to pass through and reach vital organs. This low blood supply to important organs can lead to conditions such as heart attack and stroke.
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL) — this is often considered the “good cholesterol” because they can help remove the bad LDL that are causing the blockage in the arteries.
- Triglycerides — when your body has more calories than needed, it will convert the excess into a triglyceride molecule which is found in fat cells. Having an excess of these molecules in your fat cells can also increase your risk for cardiovascular disease.
What are common sources of cholesterol?
While the body naturally makes cholesterol, this molecule is also taken in through our diets. Foods high in cholesterol include animal based products such as meat and dairy.
What are steps to reduce cholesterol levels?
Minimizing intake of processed foods and products high in saturated fats can help maintain appropriate cholesterol levels. Similarly, exercise can increase the number of HDL or “good cholesterol” in the blood.
It is important to know your cholesterol levels so that you can take actions to reduce the risk of poor health outcomes. At Trust Women’s Healthcare we provide comprehensive blood work testing for important health markers including cholesterol. Our providers can help you with lifestyle changes and prescribe medications to manage your cholesterol. Schedule an appointment with us!