High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a soft, fat-like waxy substance found in the bloodstream and in all your body’s cells. Everyone has cholesterol in their body. It is important for the production of cells and some hormones and helps with other bodily functions.

Your body makes all of the cholesterol it needs, but it also gets cholesterol from foods. If you have too much cholesterol in your blood, your body can’t get rid of it and it can build up in your arteries. Then, you could be at risk for heart disease or stroke.

LDL vs. HDL
There are two types of cholesterol LDL or “bad” cholesterol and HDL or “good” cholesterol. LDL can join with fats and other substances to build up in the inner walls of your arteries. HDL helps carry the harmful cholesterol away from the arteries and helps protect you from heart attack and stroke.
How can it be treated?
  • Cut down on foods that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol.
  • Enjoy at least 30 minutes of physical activity on most or all days of the week.
  • Eat more foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol and high in fiber.
  • Lose weight if you need to.
  • Ask your doctor about medicines that can reduce cholesterol.