Great Info Tips

It’s important to learn more about cholesterol if you have been recently diagnosed. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that helps cells in your body function properly. Too much and contributes to atherosclerosis and potentially heart attack. You get cholesterol from food and what is made in your body.

HDL is the “good” cholesterol. This is a high density lipoprotein because it brings leftover cholesterol in the bloodstream back to the liver to be broken down.

LDL is the “bad” cholesterol. A low density lipoprotein it causes a buildup called plaque along the linings of the arteries. This gradual buildup is called atherosclerosis. This plaque narrows the artery openings and causes a reduced amount of blood to flow.

TRIGS or triglycerides travel in various lipoprotiens. Excess calories, alcohol, and sugar in the body are converted into trigs and stored in fat cells. Excess belly fat is associated with trigs. ‘

Total cholesterol levels under 200 are good unless you have a high LDL and a low HDL. Blood tests your doctor orders will determine what your levels are. Medications can be given to help regulate your system. It’s very important for diabetics to have their cholesterol levels under control. Dangers are heart attack and stroke. Quitting smoking can lower your LDL and raise your HDL, which is good.