Good cholesterol and our patients

Many people think of cholesterol as something that needs to be** as low as possible.** We know that high cholesterol is a well-documented risk factor leading to heart disease. However, in scientific terms, cholesterol levels are more complicated than that. There are two main types of cholesterol in the body and only one of them is usually considered a risk to heart health. Cholesterol tests measure the amount of cholesterol in mg/dl. Most tests show both (HDL & LDL) and total (serum) cholesterol.** The total cholesterol score is a person’s level of HDL and LDL cholesterol and 20% of their triglyceride level. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is known as the “good” type of cholesterol and is really beneficial for the heart. This type of cholesterol can help remove LDL cholesterol from the blood and transport it to the liver. Where it can be processed and disposed of. A higher HDL number is desirable because it generally indicates a lower risk of heart disease. Institutions currently no longer publish specific cholesterol ranges and say these numbers are not the final word on heart disease risk. Instead, cholesterol levels are taken as just one of many factors to consider. While HDL can be too high and be harmful, a more common problem is having low HDL and high LDL. To achieve healthy cholesterol levels, experts recommend:

• Have your cholesterol checked at least every 5 years, or as recommended by a doctor.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein.
• Limit saturated fats, fried foods, salt and sweets
• Exercise for 30 minutes, four to five times a week
• No smoking Fortunately, high cholesterol is usually a manageable condition that can be controlled by making lifestyle changes and taking medications when necessary. It is very important to share this information with our patients to keep them informed and combat all the misinformation that is out there.