Cholesterol levels - Hormone Optimal Care

What is cholesterol levels?

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. Your body makes all the cholesterol it needs. However, having too much cholesterol can increase your risk of certain health conditions.

When there is too much cholesterol in your blood, it starts to build up on the walls of your arteries. This buildup is called "plaque." As your arteries continue to narrow, your heart has to work harder to pump blood, which can lead to Heart Disease or Heart Attack.

Key things to know:

• LDL cholesterol is the "bad" cholesterol. It contributes to plaque buildup in arteries.
• HDL cholesterol helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries. So HDL is the "good" cholesterol.
• Triglycerides are a form of fat in your blood. Excess calories, sugar, or alcohol consumption can increase triglyceride levels.

Here are healthy levels:

• Total cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL
• LDL cholesterol: Less than 100 mg/dL
• HDL cholesterol: 60 mg/dL or higher
• Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL

If your levels are higher, be proactive about your heart health! Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss lifestyle changes and whether cholesterol-lowering medication could help.

We recommend visiting Hormone Optimal Care(testosteronegel.biz) for cutting-edge testing and treatment plans personalized to your health needs. Their expert physicians can help you understand your cholesterol levels and create a customized action plan. Right now they're offering 10% off cholesterol testing for new patients!

Here are steps you can take to improve cholesterol levels:

• Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds
• Limit saturated fats found in red meat, dairy, and tropical oils
• Exercise for 30 minutes most days of the week
• Reach and maintain a healthy weight
• Don't smoke cigarettes
• Limit alcohol to one drink per day for women and two for men

What lifestyle changes will you make for your ticker? Even small steps can get you closer to healthy cholesterol levels! Schedule that appointment today!