Health and Survival Tip #1- Check your cholesterol

Most people know that having your cholesterol checked is a good idea. The question is why?  Studies have shown that elevated cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease (like a heart attack) and strokes. 

However, it is important to realize that high cholesterol does NOT cause heart attacks. As a matter of fact, half of all people who have heart attacks and strokes  have normal cholesterol.   Therefore, if you are being treated for high cholesterol, don’t assume that you don’t need to improve your diet or increase yor exericise.

When you check your cholesterol, your doctor may report 4 values:

1. Total Cholesterol- This level preferably should be below 200.   Usually, levels above 240 will be treated with medications.  Levels between 200-240 may improve with  diet changes but a person needs to be dedicated and consistent.

2. LDL- This is known as BAD CHOLESTEROL.  Basically, this is the molecule that is delivered to your heart and arteries, increasing risk of a heart attack or stroke.  More concerning is when this LDL molecule is oxidized. However, we don’t measure oxidized LDL so usually just try to lower the level to less than 120 or less than 100 if the person has diabetes or a history of heart disease.

3. HDL- This is know as GOOD CHOLESTEROL and its job is to remove the BAD cholesterol from the arteries and take it back to the liver where it is destroyed.  Ideally, levels should be above 40. When above 60 there is a reduction of heart attack risks.

4. Triglycerides- These are basically free fats floating around in your blood. Levels should be below 150 mg/dl. If your levels are above this, talk with your doctor how you can improve it. Usually, weight loss, fish oils and improved diet can help.  Sometimes, medications are needed.

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All people should have any idea what their cholesterol is. Ifyou don’t know, ask your doctor to check. If your levels are healthy, then you may be able re check your levels in 5- 7 years.