You’ve probably heard many times about cholesterol and how important it is to keep the right level–as you know, having high cholesterol can affect your health and body–but did you know that there are actually two types of cholesterol? They are known as HDL and LDL or “good” and “bad” cholesterol. Today, our specialist from Weight Loss Clinic in Cary will explain what cholesterol is, what the differences are between HDL and LDL and how to improve your cholesterol level.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty, waxy substance that travels around your body through your bloodstream. You can find it naturally in your body as it is made by your liver and is also found in your food. When there is too much cholesterol (especially “Low-Density Lipoprotein” (LDL)), then it is harmful to your health and body and can even increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. However, as we mentioned above, there is also “good cholesterol” which can improve your health and decrease the risk of stroke and heart attack.
Good cholesterol vs. bad cholesterol
As you now know there are two kinds of cholesterol and they each have a different impact on the body: LDL cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein) and HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein). The main difference between these two types of cholesterol is that High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol removes bad cholesterol from your bloodstream and prevents it from building up in your arteries; it then carries the bad cholesterol to your liver to be processed and eliminated. Your HDL cholesterol should be kept at the right level — as high as possible; when your HDL is at 60 or above, then it’s considered good and protective against heart disease.
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) takes cholesterol directly to your arteries, where it can build up in the artery walls and form a plaque that can narrow and eventually block the blood flow. As a result, it can lead to heart attack and stroke. Remember that the optimal LDL level should be below 100.
How to lower your cholesterol
How do you know if your cholesterol is at the right level? You don’t necessarily have to have any symptoms of having high LDL cholesterol and you may still be at risk of heart attack and stroke. The best way to find out is to visit our Weight loss center in Cary where a doctor can measure your cholesterol levels by using a blood test.
Here are some tips on how to reduce your cholesterol:
- Exercise regularly
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Change your eating habits by eating a healthy, balanced diet
- Quit smoking
- Manage your blood pressure
- Reduce stress
About our Cary Weight Loss Clinic
Total HealthcareMD is not just another weight-loss clinic. We believe that everyone is unique, which is why they need their own customized weight loss plan. If you are struggling with high cholesterol level or obesity, visit our weight-loss experts who will work with you to keep your body healthy. We will create a customized diet and exercise plan that will make your life easier and healthier. If you would like more information, please Contact us today.
The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.