What should my cholesterol Be?
From the top of your head, you can recite your total cholesterol, HDL and LDL numbers? In the heart of America Month this February, consider how you know your stats and health risks and how you use that information to make healthy decisions. Take steps to improve your numbers can be critical in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that our bodies need and occur naturally. We also get cholesterol from foods (animal products only) we can eat. Too much cholesterol is dangerous people, many inherit genes from their mother, father or even grandparents that cause their bodies to do more than necessary. Eating saturated fat, trans fat and dietary cholesterol also increases how much you have of this substance. . Excess cholesterol in the blood is deposited in arteries, where it contributes to the narrowing and blockages that can cause heart disease
A simple blood test called a lipoprotein profile fasting show the four results
- total cholesterol - consisting of low density (LDL), high density (HDL) and very low density (VLDL) lipoprotein
- LDL ( "bad" cholesterol ) - too much LDL can clog arteries
- HDL ( "good") cholesterol - helps keep LDL cholesterol from building up in the arteries
- triglycerides - another form of fat in your blood . High triglycerides are a risk factor related to lifestyle for heart disease; However, underlying diseases or genetic disorders can cause
The following table will help you understand what the different numbers for each result means :.
| testing | Desirable | Borderline | associated with a higher risk |
| total cholesterol | > 0 | 0-239 | 239 or more |
| HDL cholesterol | 40 or | - | Less than 40 |
| LDL cholesterol | > 130 | 130 -159 | 0 or more |
| triglycerides | T> 150 | 150-199 | 0 or more |
Note: All levels in units of mg / dL
Some tips for cholesterol management are:
- know your numbers! High cholesterol may not produce any symptoms at all or until significant damage has been done and you can take steps to prevent and reduce damage.
- Discuss your personal risk for heart disease, including your family health history with your doctor and find out how you can improve your heart health.
- Take time to read food labels: choose foods that are low in saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol.
- To improve your heart health and cholesterol, do not use tobacco, maintain a healthy weight and get at least 30-60 minutes of physical activity most days of the week.
Become your own "health advocate" knowing what your numbers are and create a plan of action. Schedule an annual physical with your doctor
Sources :. Washington and Shady Grove Adventist hospitals. For more information, consult your doctor.
0 Komentar