You may often hear the word cholesterol associated with health issues but not know its importance or what it actually means. Family history and cholesterol levels can be very revealing when it comes to your health and quality of life. Cholesterol, along with its significance, is not an overstated issue. Monitor it closely if you fall into a risk category for heart disease or diabetes.
Types of Cholesterol
When it comes to cholesterol, there are two types you need to know about. Low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, is the bad cholesterol. When LDL levels get too high in the bloodstream, they can create plaque along your artery walls, making it difficult for blood to flow through. High-density lipoproteins, or HDL, is the good cholesterol. HDL actually helps to move LDL to the liver and out of the body.
Cholesterol Related Diseases
If you have high cholesterol you put yourself at risk for a number of diseases. Hypertension, heart attack and heart disease are all linked to cholesterol. High cholesterol often coincides with obesity, which can put you at risk for other diseases, such as diabetes.
Who is at Risk?
Your risk for cholesterol-related diseases depends on a few factors. If you have slightly higher than average cholesterol, you may not experience heart disease or have a heart attack. But someone else with the same level may develop heart disease because she has a family history. Knowing your family health history can help you determine how much you should focus on your cholesterol. Aim to keep it at a healthy level, but your risk is decreased if you do not have a family history of heart disease. Weight is another indicator. If you are overweight or obese you increase your risk for heart disease and diabetes. Weight loss and management can help you reduce this risk.
How to Prevent Cholesterol-Related Diseases
Depending on how high your cholesterol is and what your doctor recommends, you may be able to lower it without the use of medication. Following a heart-healthy diet is one major step you can take for heart health. A heart-healthy diet is low in fat and cholesterol and is primarily plant-based. Monitor your cholesterol intake by reading nutrition labels to ensure you aren't consuming too much. Exercise also plays an important role in the fight against heart disease. Exercise can not only help you maintain and lose weight, but also get blood and oxygen flowing through your body.
