What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty, waxy element of your body that helps to build cells and produce hormones and vitamin D. It’s naturally produced in the liver and is also found in many foods.
Within normal, healthy limits, cholesterol is an important part of a well-functioning body. When too high, it can build up in the bloodstream, causing blockages in the blood vessels and preventing proper blood flow to your body’s systems.
What are the Types of Cholesterol?
There are two main types of cholesterol, or rather two types of cells that help manage cholesterol in the body. These cells are called lipoproteins, and they manage cholesterol in different ways.
- Low-Density Lipoprotein: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” because as it transports cholesterol through the body it can cause buildup in the bloodstream and blood vessels.
- High-Density Lipoprotein: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is also called “good cholesterol,” as it helps to collect excess cholesterol in the blood and prevent blockages from occurring.
For healthy cholesterol levels in the body, you want a low LDL level and a high HDL level. When you have your cholesterol checked, your results reflect how much of each type of cholesterol you have.
What are Some Complications of High Cholesterol?
The most significant risk factor of high cholesterol is heart disease, specifically coronary artery disease. Coronary artery disease is caused by blockages in the arteries, which causes an interruption in blood flow throughout the body.
High cholesterol can also increase your risk for:
- Stroke
- Liver disease
- Peripheral artery disease
- High blood pressure, or hypertension
- Type II diabetes
Regular checks of your cholesterol levels help to identify your risk factors and enable you to make changes that may help you to prevent these complications.
How Can I Lower My Cholesterol?
To lower your LDL cholesterol and increase your HDL cholesterol, some changes you can make are:
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Stop smoking
- Eat a healthy diet
- Get regular cholesterol checks
- Keep an active lifestyle
If your cholesterol can’t be controlled using these lifestyle changes, you may require cholesterol-lowering drugs.
For a cholesterol check, call Phoenix Heart today or book an appointment online.
