Cholesterol levels - Wellness Hormone Clinic

What is cholesterol levels?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs to function properly. It is produced naturally by the liver, but can also come from foods that contain saturated fats. There are two main types of cholesterol:

• LDL cholesterol - often called "bad" cholesterol because having high levels can lead to a buildup of cholesterol in your arteries. This buildup is known as plaque and increases your risk for heart disease and stroke.
• HDL cholesterol - often called "good" cholesterol because it carries cholesterol from other parts of your body back to your liver where it can be removed before building up in arteries. Higher HDL levels help reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke.

What are healthy cholesterol levels?

The American Heart Association provides these general guidelines for healthy cholesterol levels:

• Total cholesterol - less than 200 mg/dL is ideal. Between 200-239 mg/dL is borderline high. 240 mg/dL and above is considered high.
• LDL cholesterol - less than 100 mg/dL is ideal. 130-159 mg/dL is borderline high. 160 mg/dL and above is considered high.
• HDL cholesterol - 60 mg/dL and above helps lower your risk for heart disease.

Having high cholesterol usually doesn't cause any outward symptoms, so getting your levels checked regularly is important. You can get a simple blood test called a lipid panel to measure your total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.

How to improve cholesterol levels

There are several steps you can take to maintain healthy cholesterol levels or lower high cholesterol:

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and foods low in saturated fats
• Limit red meats, full-fat dairy, eggs, and processed foods high in trans fats
• Exercise regularly - aim for at least 30 minutes per day
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Don't smoke and limit alcohol
• Take medications as prescribed by your doctor - such as statins to lower LDL

If you're concerned about your cholesterol levels, make an appointment to get tested and discuss treatment options with your doctor. The medical experts at Wellness Hormone Clinic provide comprehensive hormone testing and personalized treatment plans to help patients optimize cholesterol and other heart health markers.

Their state-of-the-art facility uses advanced testing to evaluate hormone, vitamin, and mineral levels related to heart disease risk. Based on test results, their physicians develop customized nutrition, supplement, fitness, and medication protocols tailored to each patient's unique biochemistry and health goals.

Contact Wellness Hormone Clinic today to schedule your evaluation and take control of your heart health!

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