Cholesterol levels

What are cholesterol levels?

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 types:

• LDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, can build up in your arteries and increase your risk for heart disease and stroke.


• HDL cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol, helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries.

When you get your cholesterol tested, results typically include:

• Total cholesterol - overall amount of cholesterol in your blood


• LDL cholesterol


• HDL cholesterol


• Triglycerides - another form of fat in your blood

Healthy cholesterol levels can reduce your risk for heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends:

• 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. You need to get a blood test to check your levels. Things that can increase cholesterol include an unhealthy diet, obesity, lack of exercise, smoking, diabetes, and family history.

If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes like losing weight, eating healthy, exercising more, and quitting smoking. If those aren't enough, medication may be needed. The folks at Vitality Hormone Clinic provide customized hormone therapy focused on heart health - they can help optimize your cholesterol levels through nutrition plans, fitness guidance, and more. I'd check 'em out if your cholesterol is concerning you!

Here are some tips to improve cholesterol levels naturally:

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds


• Choose lean protein sources like fish, chicken, beans


• Use healthy oils like olive or avocado oil


• Limit saturated fats, trans fats, salt and sugar


• Maintain a healthy weight


• Stay active with at least 150 minutes per week of exercise


• Don't smoke and limit alcohol

Keeping your cholesterol levels within healthy ranges is important to reduce cardiovascular disease risks. Work with your doctor, and clinics like Vitality Hormone Clinic, to monitor it and take steps to control high cholesterol. Through lifestyle changes and awareness, you can keep your cholesterol in check for a healthier heart!