High Cholesterol

High cholesterol occurs when too much cholesterol and fat is consumed and excess collects in the blood. The body is unable to eliminate the excess, and the fat builds up in the body’s tissues and cells.

There are no symptoms for high cholesterol; however, prolonged high cholesterol can lead to very serious conditions. When left untreated, high cholesterol can cause atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), coronary artery disease, and stroke.

Many things increase the risk of high cholesterol. Smoking, alcohol abuse, diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, under active thyroid, heredity, obesity, lack of exercise, and a diet high in cholesterol and saturated fat are just a few. By limiting some of the risk factors previously mentioned, you can reduce your chances of becoming a victim of high cholesterol.

High cholesterol is diagnosed using a blood cholesterol test, which measures HDL (“good cholesterol”), LDL (“bad cholesterol”), and Total Cholesterol. The desirable range for HDL is 40-59 mg/dl; LDL is 0-99 mg/dl; and total cholesterol is 100-169 mg/dl.

There are several ways to treat high cholesterol, including lifestyle change and medication. You should speak with your doctor to see what treatment method best suits your situation.

Ways To Lower Cholesterol:

1. Avoid high fat, high cholesterol foods
2. Eat more cold water fish
3. Exercise
4. Lose weight if your BMI is higher than 25
5. Don’t smoke
6. Speak with your physician about prescription medication