Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. There are two types:
When you get your cholesterol tested, you will receive a total cholesterol number and numbers for both LDL and HDL.
What are healthy cholesterol levels?
The American Heart Association recommends:
What affects cholesterol levels?
Factors that can influence your cholesterol include:
What do high cholesterol levels mean?
High LDL cholesterol puts you at risk for heart disease and stroke because it can slowly build up in the inner walls of your arteries. This plaque narrows your arteries and makes them less flexible, a condition called atherosclerosis.
If a blood clot forms and blocks blood flow to your heart, it causes a heart attack. Similarly, a blocked artery in or leading to the brain causes an ischemic stroke.
Need help getting your cholesterol on track?
The medical professionals at Hormone Health Institute offer cutting-edge testing and treatment plans personalized to your health needs. Contact us today to learn more and take control of your heart health!