Cholesterol — a wax like substance that builds up in the arteries — it is not completely harmful, despite its reputation. In fact, it can even improve your health when consumed properly. Cholesterol travels through blood on proteins called “lipoproteins.” There are two types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol throughout the body.
Good and Bad Cholesterol
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). HDL is considered “good” cholesterol, while LDL is considered “bad.” This is due to HDL carries cholesterol to your liver, where it is eliminated from your bloodstream before it starts to builds up in the arteries. Whereas, LDL on the other hand, takes the cholesterol directly to your arteries. This can result in atherosclerosis, a plaque buildup that can cause heart attack and stroke.
How to lower your Cholesterol?
A high cholesterol level means you might be at risk of heart disease and stroke. You won’t necessarily have any symptoms of having high cholesterol. You need to take a test in order to know the cholesterol level in your body. The test finds out the amount of both HDL and LDL cholesterol in your body. If you have a high cholesterol level, Changing the lifestyle might help you reduce the levels.
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of high fiber foods
- lowering your intake of saturated fats
- Exercise daily
- Manage your blood pressure
- Maintain a healthy body weight
- Quit smoking.
If your cholesterol is high, your doctor might also prescribe you medication that can help lower the cholesterol.
