Let’s talk about cholesterol today.
Why?
Because it’s American Heart Month and “this year, the Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention (DHDSP) will focus on the impact that high blood cholesterol can have on the heart.”
Where Does Cholesterol Come From?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) distinguish between two primary sources of cholesterol:
Blood Cholesterol
Most cholesterol comes from your body, specifically, your liver. And this blood cholesterol is actually very good for you – under healthy levels. It helps you digest foods that are fatty and it plays a role in making hormones.
Dietary Cholesterol
Another source of cholesterol comes from what you consume. Animal foods, such as meat and dairy products, for example, give your body cholesterol too.
Cholesterol, Good and Bad
Cholesterol comes in different forms. The most discussed types, perhaps, are known as HDL and LDL.
HDL
HDL, or High-Density Lipoprotein, is the good type. It appears that HDL removes LDL from the arteries, which may reduce the risk of stroke or heart attack.
LDL
LDL, or Low-Density Lipoprotein, can be dangerous. If it builds up in the arteries and and narrows them, there is a greater risk of stroke and heart attack.
Remember This
The American Heart Association suggests remembering three things when it comes to cholesterol. They all start with the letter C:
Check
You should remember to check your cholesterol. Know your levels.
Change
By changing your lifestyle and diet, you may change your cholesterol levels. Do what it takes to make this change.
Control
Cholesterol that you already have can be controlled. Make sure to speak to your doctor to find out just how you can control your cholesterol.
Which changes will you make to improve your cholesterol health this American Heart Month?
Please share in the comments below.