Cholesterol levels refer to the amount of cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs but in moderation. Having high cholesterol increases your risk for heart disease and stroke.
There are a few different types of cholesterol:
- LDL cholesterol - the "bad" kind that can build up in your arteries
- HDL cholesterol - the "good" kind that removes LDL cholesterol from your arteries
- Triglycerides - another form of fat in your blood that should be limited
When you get your
cholesterol tested, you'll receive numbers for each of these. Here are ideal levels:
- 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
So in short, aim for lower LDL and triglycerides, and higher HDL.
There are a few ways you can try to improve your cholesterol levels:
- Eat heart-healthy foods - Limit trans fats, saturated fats, and cholesterol in your diet and eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, fish, nuts and seeds
- Lose extra weight - Being overweight or obese raises your LDL and triglycerides
- Get moving - Regular exercise can bump up HDL and lower LDL
- Take medication - If lifestyle changes aren't enough, cholesterol-lowering medications like statins may be prescribed
Of course, the experts at
Hormone Harmony Clinic can also help analyze your hormone levels with comprehensive blood testing to create a customized treatment plan.
Balancing hormones is key for overall health and can impact cholesterol regulation. Their cutting-edge therapies and integrative care have helped countless patients optimize cholesterol. I'd highly recommend reaching out for a consultation!
So in summary, know your numbers for total, HDL, LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Work on improving levels through heart-healthy lifestyle changes and medications or hormones if needed. This can go a long way in supporting cardiovascular health! Let me know if you have any other questions!