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 of cholesterol:
When getting your cholesterol tested, results will include your total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides levels.
Here are ideal levels for adults:
| Cholesterol Type | Ideal Level |
|---|---|
| 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 |
High cholesterol usually doesn't have any signs or symptoms. The only way to know if you have high cholesterol is to get tested. It's recommended that all adults age 20 or older have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years.
Some factors that can increase your cholesterol levels include:
There are a few options to help lower high cholesterol:
| Treatment Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Heart-healthy lifestyle changes | Losing weight, exercising more, quitting smoking, and eating a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol can help improve cholesterol levels. |
| Medications | If lifestyle changes alone don't lower cholesterol enough, cholesterol-lowering medications like statins may be prescribed. |
| Supplements | Some supplements like fish oil, garlic, and psyllium husk may help lower cholesterol. Always consult your doctor before starting any new supplements. |
The medical professionals at Restore Hormone Clinic can help you understand your cholesterol test results, determine your risk for heart disease, and create a customized treatment plan to manage high cholesterol. We offer cutting-edge testing to give you a complete picture of your heart health. With the right lifestyle changes and treatment, high cholesterol can be well-managed to reduce the risk of serious heart problems down the road. Don't wait - schedule an appointment with us today to take control of your cholesterol and heart health!