How Cholesterol Affects Your Body And How To Manage It

One of the best ways to keep your risk of heart disease low is by managing your cholesterol levels. Cholesterol issues not only affect your heart but have been linked to several other health issues. Even if you are feeling healthy, you may still have cholesterol problems. Here is more information about cholesterol, how it affects your body, and things you can do to manage your levels.

What Is Cholesterol?

The term cholesterol refers to specific types of lipids that flow through your bloodstream. There are generally two different types: low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Your body needs these lipids to build cells and synthesize vital hormones. Cholesterol also helps strengthen cell membranes and nerve sheaths.

LDL transports cholesterol through your arteries to areas that need it. HDL cholesterol brings excess cholesterol back to the liver where it is metabolized and removed. LDL is considered the "bad" cholesterol, and HDL is considered the "good" cholesterol.

How Does High Cholesterol Affect the Body?

When those in the medical field refer to "high cholesterol," they are most likely talking about high levels of LDL cholesterol. High LDL levels cause fat to clog your arteries and increase your risk of stroke. High LDL also causes inflammation and high blood pressure.

What Causes High Cholesterol?

For most people, lifestyle is one of the main causes of high LDL cholesterol. Poor diet and lack of exercise are major contributors. Obesity, kidney issues, and type 2 diabetes also put you at high risk for high LDL cholesterol. Smokers tend to have more cholesterol issues than nonsmokers. Some people also have the added risk of a strong family history of high cholesterol.

How Can One Manage Cholesterol Levels?

For most people, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with exercise and a diet low in saturated fat will reduce LDL cholesterol problems. Avoid eating too many calories and keep fatty meats and high cholesterol foods to a minimum. Keeping your weight close to a normal level and managing your diabetes also helps. Those with a unique genetic history may have difficulty lowering their cholesterol without medications.

Cholesterol tests are a normal part of a physical. Most people with an average risk of high cholesterol need testing about every five years. Those with health issues or a family history of high cholesterol may need more frequent tests. In addition to cholesterol levels, your doctor will also consider other health issues in deciding your treatment. Visit a medical clinic if you need cholesterol testing or if you have any other health issues.