Many people hear about cholesterol and worry it’s always bad. But cholesterol isn’t all bad. Your body needs some cholesterol to stay healthy. The problem happens when you have too much of the wrong kind.
What Is Cholesterol ?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your body. Your liver makes cholesterol, and you also get it from foods like eggs, meat, and cheese. Your body uses it to build cells and make hormones.
There are two types of cholesterol. LDL is known as the “bad” cholesterol. It can stick to your blood vessels and cause blockages, which may lead to heart problems. HDL is the “good” cholesterol that helps remove the bad kind from your body and keep your arteries clear.
What Really Affects Your Cholesterol Levels?
Doctors now believe that eating cholesterol-rich foods isn’t always the main cause of high cholesterol in your blood. What matters more is how much saturated fat and trans fat you eat. These unhealthy fats are found in fried foods, processed snacks like chips and cookies, fatty cuts of meat, and items made with butter or lard.
Eating these types of food often can raise your LDL cholesterol, which is the harmful kind. So, instead of only watching your cholesterol intake, it’s even more important to avoid foods that are high in bad fats.
Easy Ways to Lower Cholesterol Naturally
You can protect your heart and lower your cholesterol with some simple changes to your daily life. Try to eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as they help clean your system and support heart health. Choose lean proteins such as chicken, fish, or beans instead of fatty red meat. Use olive oil when cooking instead of butter or margarine, which are high in unhealthy fats.
Try to cut down on fast food and sugary snacks, which often contain trans fats and processed ingredients that harm your health. Getting about 30 minutes of walking or light exercise each day also helps. It’s also a good idea to quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption, as both habits can raise your cholesterol and hurt your heart over time.
When Should You Get Your Cholesterol Checked?
Most doctors suggest that adults should check their cholesterol levels every four to six years. However, if you’re over 40, have high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, you should have your cholesterol tested more often.
A simple blood test, known as a lipid panel, will show your total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglyceride levels. This information helps doctors guide you on any lifestyle or treatment changes needed.
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