Wellness Report
August 20, 2013 - Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a naturally occurring substance in the body that helps to form cell membranes and certain hormones. However, too much can lead to heart disease and stroke. The liver produces nearly 75% of cholesterol in the body, and the remaining 25% typically comes from foods. Cholesterol is only found in animal products, such as meat, eggs and dairy products.
There are two main types of cholesterol, HDL and LDL. Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) is considered to be "bad" cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood stream can build up along artery walls and block blood flow, resulting in atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is the hardening of the arteries, and is often called Coronary Artery Disease. Heredity can play a major role in how much LDL cholesterol a person's body produces, and diets high in saturated and trans fats can contribute to high LDL concentrations.
The second type of cholesterol, High Density Lipoprotein (HDL), is considered to be "good" cholesterol. It prevents LDL cholesterol from sticking to and clogging artery walls. Because of this, not having enough HDL cholesterol can result in unhealthy levels of LDL cholesterol. Studies have shown that exercise can stimulate the body's HDL production.
An estimated 600,000 people die annually in the US due to a heart attack or stroke that was caused by high cholesterol. There are usually no symptoms of high cholesterol until it begins to build up and harden artery walls. A simple blood test can detect HDL and LDL cholesterol levels. People 20 years of age or older are encouraged to have a cholesterol screening every five years to monitor these levels.
Prevention and treatment of high cholesterol is relatively simple. Often, lifestyle changes can lower bad cholesterol levels. These changes include:
- a low sodium, low fat, and high fiber diet
- integrating fresh fruits and vegetables into the diet
- walking a least 30 minutes a day, at least 5 days a week
- maintaining a healthy weight
- not smoking
However, certain factors, like genetics, age, gender and stress levels can make it difficult to maintain healthy cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes. Certain medications help to lower cholesterol levels, and combined with lifestyle changes, are successful in keeping bad cholesterol levels down.
September is National Cholesterol Awareness Month. If you are over 20 and haven't had a cholesterol screening, or feel that you may be at risk for high cholesterol, please contact Dr. Nunn to set up a cholesterol screening appointment.
Sources
www.heart.org, www.cdc.gov
