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A diagnosis of high cholesterol spells confusion for many patients. With confusing information and numerous products designed to lower cholesterol, consumers benefit from an understanding of what cholesterol is and how our body processes it.
Cholesterol forms an essential component of cell membranes and assists in tissue repair. Additionally, it helps to manufacture bile acid, vitamin D and steroid hormones such as cortisol, estrogen and testosterone. The liver produces the majority of the body's cholesterol, while the rest comes from diet.
Humans consume cholesterol in animal-based foods such as meat, cheese and eggs. Other sources include saturated and trans fat from baked, fried, snack and fast foods. After a meal, dietary cholesterol is absorbed from the intestine and stored in the liver for release as needed by the body. Because the body naturally produces cholesterol, diets rich in cholesterol-laden fatty foods overload the body.
Two different types of cholesterol exist. High Density Lipoprotein, or HDL, is called good cholesterol because it removes cholesterol from artery walls and deposits it in the liver for processing. Low Density Lipoprotein, or LDL, earns the designation of bad cholesterol because it attaches to artery walls and slows blood flow. Stroke and heart attack could be caused by high LDL cholesterol levels. Genetically, lower LDL receptors increase the risk of atherosclerosis or clogged arteries. Patients strive for low levels of LDL cholesterol and high levels of HDL cholesterol for optimal health.
Physicians recommend blood tests every five years to screen cholesterol levels. Optimum cholesterol levels remain under 200. High levels of over 240 require treatment. For effective treatment, combine drugs with a diet rich in relatively cholesterol-free plant-based foods. Foods labeled with phytosterols may reduce the absorption of cholesterol and increase levels of good cholesterol. Reduce the amount of fat consumed, particularly animal proteins that raise blood cholesterol faster than other foods. Add aerobic exercise to the current exercise regimen to promote heart health. Available drugs prevent the liver from producing and absorbing cholesterol or raise HDL while lowering LDL.
While high cholesterol levels remain a plague for patients of all ages, anyone can seek a healthier lifestyle. Make healthy dietary changes, exercise, and discuss the use of medications with a primary care physician. All attempts to lower cholesterol levels aid in overall health and can lead to a longer, healthier life.
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What's the easiest way to lower my cholesterol?
Eat less unhealthy fats, choose healthy fats, eat more fibre,be more active, maintain a healthy weight, and do not smoke/stop smoking. For more informations try this site http://livingwellwithcholesterol.ca/managing-cholesterol/managing-cholesterol/managing-cholesterol?gclid=COGtn6eR3KoCFWUZQgodGl407A
What guide do you use to reduce your cholesterol?
TLC has a great guide for reducing one's cholesterol that includes understanding cholesterol levels and how to lower them, then becoming physically active and following a healthy meal plan.
What has the author Philip Yeagle written?
Philip Yeagle has written: 'Understanding your cholesterol' -- subject(s): Atherosclerosis, Cholesterol, Popular works, Risk factors
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What kind of doctor best understands what a normal cholesterol level is?
A primary care physician has an understanding of normal cholesterol levels and can test a person to determine their cholesterol levels. A cardiologist would also have more knowledge about cholesterol levels and heart health in general.
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Sam Goldstein has written: 'Understanding and managing children's classroom behavior'
What is the cholesterol number?
For normal the numbers should be around 120/80. Of course this varies from person to person but that is about normal. You don't want the numbers too low or too high. WebMd has some great information on cholesterol. http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/guide/understanding-numbers
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What are some good cholesterol foods?
There are many good Cholesterol foods. There are two types of Cholesterol, HDLs, and LDLs. HDLs are the good type of cholesterol, and these are items are mostly fruits (eggs are a good source of HDLs too!). LDLs are the bad Cholesterol, avoid them at all costs if you want a better HDL count. Fish and Nuts are examples of LDLs.
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Low cholesterol diets are an important part of any healthy diet, and a cornerstone of healthy living in general. However, you do need to understand the difference between good cholesterol and bad cholesterol. The best low cholesterol diets will have a realistic, rational understanding of your need for certain types of cholesterol in your body to help promote your bodily functions. Because of this, looking for "no cholesterol" diets or something similar to that will probably lead you to nothing but fad and "fly by night" types of diets. The best diets are those that take realistic food needs into account.
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Managing a relationship successfully takes a lot of work, patience and understanding. Managing a breakup and trying to cope with emotions is difficult and counseling can help. Thriveworks links individuals with the appropriate counselor in the Boston area.
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Bud Nye has written: 'Understanding and managing your anger and aggression' -- subject(s): Aggressiveness, Anger, Interpersonal relations
