Tall cholesterol it is a health problem that many do not know they have because there are often no signs, but if left untreated it can cause heart disease, which is the leading cause of death, or stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Nearly 94 million American adults age 20 and older have total cholesterol levels greater than 200 mg/dL. Twenty-eight million adults in the United States have total cholesterol levels greater than 240 mg/dL.” While there are risk factors like family history and age that can’t be changed, there are lifestyle choices that reduce the chance. Eat this, not that! Health spoke with Eric StahlMD Non-invasive cardiologist at Staten Island University Hospital who shares what you need to know about cholesterol and ways to help prevent it. Read on and to ensure your health and the health of others, don’t miss these Sure signs you’ve already had COVID.
Dr. Stahl says, “When excess cholesterol circulates in the blood, it increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attack and stroke. While some cholesterol is needed for metabolism and good health, excess cholesterol can develop from poor diet, genes, smoking, sedentary lifestyle, and obesity There are different types of cholesterol Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the “bad cholesterol” It binds to fats and accumulates in the walls of the arteries causing atherosclerosis High-density lipoprotein (HDL ) is the “good cholesterol” and removes LDL from the bloodstream Triglycerides are not a type of cholesterol, but a fat that stores excess energy Triglyceride levels they are often reported in a cholesterol panel blood test every 5 years if they are low risk, or more frequently if they have risk factors for hypercholesterolemia.”
Dr. Stahl emphasizes, “Smoking cessation is a very important aspect of lowering cholesterol, lowering LDL, and raising HDL. Smoking also promotes accelerated atherosclerosis, and smoking cessation helps reduce cardiovascular disease.”
Dr. Stahl states: “Being more active helps lower cholesterol, especially by raising HDL. 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise is recommended to help lower cholesterol. Brisk walking, jogging, walking biking or swimming are great ways to be more active.”
Dr. Stahl explains: “Obesity is a major risk factor for high cholesterol. Even modest weight loss can lower cholesterol levels. Weight loss of 5-10% has been shown to lower total cholesterol , LDL and triglycerides. Weight loss of more than 10% lowers these levels even further. Focusing on eating a heart-healthy diet and increasing physical activity can help achieve these weight-loss goals.”
“One of the most important ways to lower your risk of high cholesterol is to eat a heart-healthy diet,” Dr. Stahl tells us. “The American Heart Association recommends limiting saturated fat to less than 6% of daily caloric intake and minimizing trans fat. Following the Mediterranean diet and limiting red meat, dairy, and fried foods will help lower cholesterol.” .
heather newgen
Heather Newgen has two decades of experience reporting and writing on health, fitness, entertainment and travel. Heather currently works as a freelancer for various publications. Read more about Heather
