Cholesterol,
a fat-related substance found in the blood, should be monitored, as too much
cholesterol can build up and form artery-clogging plaques, slowing blood to a
trickle and ending in a heart attack that could be fatal.
According
to a panel of experts convened by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute,
cholesterol should be 200 millligrams
per deciliter or lower. Cholesterol levels of 200 to 240 milligrams per
deciliter put adults at moderate risk for heart disease; levels of 240 or
higher consitute a high risk.
When you have your cholesterol level checked, ask also
for your:
Triglycerides
– another kind of blood fat. Ideally, this should be 160 millligrams per deciliter or
lower.
HDL
cholesterol – high-density lipoprotein, a protective kind of fat. The more HDL,
the better – it should not be below 35.
LDL
cholesterol – low-density lipoprotein. The less LDL, the better – it should not be
more than 130. Also, the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol ideally
should be 3.5 or less. To calculate your ratio, divide the total cholesterol
number by the HDL number. A ratio of 4.0 to 5.0 constitutes about average risk.
Most people
can improve their cholesterol and triglyceride readings by eating less dietary
fat, not smoking, getting more exercise, avoiding overweight, consuming a
limited amount of alcohol and sweets, and eating certain kinds of food high in
fiber.
Used with permission from A Year of Health Hints by Don R Powell, PHD and the American
Institute for Preventive Medicine, copyright 2010. www.healthylife.com
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