All about cholesterol What your doctor warned you about
According to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, high cholesterol affects more than 65 million Americans. The reason to be concerned is because high cholesterol is the major risk factor for atherosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries) leading to heart attack and stroke. For those with high cholesterol, the risk is doubled compared to someone with normal cholesterol and who is otherwise considered healthy.
Cholesterol is a waxy fat-like substance the body needs mainly to digest fats. Over time the excess can build up, causing plaque to form, narrowing the arteries. Narrowing can interrupt blood flow to organs, especially the heart and brain, resulting in injury.
Total cholesterol measures both LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol in your blood. This measurement represents your general risk of developing heart disease or stroke. The higher your LDL level is the greater your risks are.
Total cholesterol according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control):
- Less than 200 is considered “Good”
- Between 200-239 is considered “Borderline High”
- Over 240 is considered “High”
LDL alone:
- Less than 100 is considered “Best”
- Between 100-129 is considered “Good”
- Between 130-159 is considered “Borderline”
- Between 160-189 is considered “High”
- 190 or above is considered “Very High”
Risk factors for high cholesterol include:
- Age, risk increases with age
- Diabetes
- Diet, consumption of saturated fats and trans fatty acids
- Weight
- Being physically inactive
- Heredity
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention is best. A lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, and not smoking will be the best protection against getting high cholesterol. Exercise helps by preventing plaque from clogging the arteries. A diet low in fats and high in fruits and vegetables can help lower cholesterol. Once a person is diagnosed with high cholesterol, the doctor may recommend some dietary changes, an increase in exercise, smoking cessation if needed and adding a medication to help lower and control your cholesterol.
It is recommended that those ages 20 and older have their cholesterol checked at least every five years. For those over the age of 45, more frequent testing is recommended, especially those with other risk factors or a family history.
Cholesterol is checked by a blood test that requires 12 hours fasting.
Cholesterol is a waxy fat-like substance the body needs mainly to digest fats. Over time the excess can build up, causing plaque to form, narrowing the arteries. Narrowing can interrupt blood flow to organs, especially the heart and brain, resulting in injury.
Total cholesterol measures both LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol in your blood. This measurement represents your general risk of developing heart disease or stroke. The higher your LDL level is the greater your risks are.
Total cholesterol according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control):
- Less than 200 is considered “Good”
- Between 200-239 is considered “Borderline High”
- Over 240 is considered “High”
LDL alone:
- Less than 100 is considered “Best”
- Between 100-129 is considered “Good”
- Between 130-159 is considered “Borderline”
- Between 160-189 is considered “High”
- 190 or above is considered “Very High”
Risk factors for high cholesterol include:
- Age, risk increases with age
- Diabetes
- Diet, consumption of saturated fats and trans fatty acids
- Weight
- Being physically inactive
- Heredity
Prevention and Treatment
Prevention is best. A lifestyle that includes a healthy diet, regular exercise, and not smoking will be the best protection against getting high cholesterol. Exercise helps by preventing plaque from clogging the arteries. A diet low in fats and high in fruits and vegetables can help lower cholesterol. Once a person is diagnosed with high cholesterol, the doctor may recommend some dietary changes, an increase in exercise, smoking cessation if needed and adding a medication to help lower and control your cholesterol.
It is recommended that those ages 20 and older have their cholesterol checked at least every five years. For those over the age of 45, more frequent testing is recommended, especially those with other risk factors or a family history.
Cholesterol is checked by a blood test that requires 12 hours fasting.
Published: February 1, 2012
