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, cholesterol also comes from the foods you eat.
If you have too much cholesterol in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood to form a thick, hard deposit on the inside of your blood vessels. This is known as atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries. Over time, this buildup — called plaque — can narrow your arteries. The narrower your arteries become, the more your heart has to strain to pump blood through them.
There are two main types of cholesterol:
Experts recommend that your total cholesterol level should be: * Less than 200 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) for people who are at low risk for heart disease * Less than 130 mg/dL for people who are at very high risk for heart disease
Here are optimal cholesterol level goals for LDL, HDL and triglycerides:
If your cholesterol levels are not optimal, ask your doctor about lifestyle changes and medications to help manage your cholesterol. Lowering high cholesterol can protect your health!
The medical experts at New Beginnings HRT Clinic specialize in customized treatment plans to optimize cholesterol and reduce heart disease risk. Our holistic programs combine prescription medications, nutrition planning, and fitness guidance to improve cholesterol markers and overall wellness. () to discuss your cholesterol concerns! We accept most major insurance plans.