Heart disease is the leading cause of adult deaths in the United States. Though anyone can develop it, numerous factors put you at a higher risk. High cholesterol is one of them.
Learning more about this link may prompt you to take steps to protect your health long term. February is American Heart Month, making it a prime time to do so.
Our expert team at Bethel Medical offers cholesterol testing with same-day results, as well as lifestyle programs to improve your heart health.
Take a few moments to learn more about cholesterol, including benefits, risks of high levels, and how to turn related challenges around.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance in your blood that’s produced by your liver. It’s also found in various foods, such as high-fat meats and dairy products.
Though your body needs cholesterol to absorb fat-soluble nutrients, make certain hormones, and produce bile, high levels can form plaque buildup on your arterial walls.
Your blood contains both HDL, or “good,” cholesterol, and LDL, or “bad” cholesterol. Healthy LDL levels fall generally below 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). HDL levels equal to or greater than 60 mg/dL are ideal.
When LDL cholesterol accumulates in your arteries, forming plaque, blood can flow freely throughout your body. This narrows and hardens your arteries over time, raising your risk for coronary artery disease (CAD.
If a bit of plaque breaks apart, you can develop a blood clot. When a blood clot blocks an artery completely, it can cause a heart attack or stroke.
Routine cholesterol screenings can help ensure that high levels are addressed early, through lifestyle measures and, if needed, medication.
If you’re aged 20-39, the American Heart Association recommends that you have your cholesterol levels tested at least every four to six years. If you’re 40 or older, prone to high cholesterol, or have other heart disease risk factors, like diabetes or hypertension, you may benefit from more frequent cholesterol screenings.
Thankfully, there’s a lot you can do to protect your heart health while keeping your cholesterol in a good place. Steps our team may recommend include:
A diet that improves cardiovascular health emphasizes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fat sources, like oily fish and flaxseeds. Our providers offer comprehensive nutrition programs to help you improve your overall wellness and shed excess weight.
To learn more about high cholesterol and heart disease or get started with personalized support, contact us today.
