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Health & Fitness

Tips for Lowering Your Cholesterol

In honor of September being National Cholesterol Education Month, take control and lower your cholesterol with these lifestyle changes.

By Shivang Trivedi, M.D., cardiologist at Somerset Medical Center

 

When hearing the word “cholesterol,” people tend to assume it’s related to being unhealthy. The word carries many negative connotations; however, many do not know that cholesterol is actually a risk factor that is very controllable given the proper information and tools. Providing yourself with general knowledge of the difference between good and bad cholesterol can prevent future health risks.

 

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According to the American Heart Association, there are two types of cholesterol; “good” cholesterol and “bad” cholesterol. While most people associate cholesterol as only bad, the good cholesterol is important to know about too. Bad cholesterol happens when build up clogs the arteries and disturbs blood flow to organs that are necessary to function. Good cholesterol keeps the bad cholesterol from getting lodged into artery walls. Regulating both the good and bad cholesterol is essential; too much or too little of either kind can create an irregular balance in your system.

 

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In honor of September being National Cholesterol Education Month, take control and lower your cholesterol with these four lifestyle changes:

 

  • Eating a heart-healthy diet – It is essential to recognize which foods help keep your cholesterol in check. Heart-healthy foods include fish, oats, fruit, and vegetables. Practicing moderation is also a way to enjoy the food you love without ruining the progress you’ve already made with leveling your cholesterol.

 

  • Regular exercise – Every body type is different but regular exercise, in any amount, is always a good thing to incorporate into your daily routine. About 30 minutes a day of exercise can lower your risk of heart disease or stroke. It will also contribute to weight loss with the proper diet.

 

  • Avoid unhealthy habits– Smoking, overeating, or any other detrimental habit can contribute to heart attacks, strokes, disease or clogging of arteries. Kicking bad habits now will have positive long term effects on your health.

 

  • Use doctor recommended medication as directed– As mentioned before, some cholesterol is not directly affected by controllable factors, such as eating, exercising or avoiding unhealthy habits. The genetic factor of cholesterol may need medical assistance to keep it regulated. Seeing a doctor about what cholesterol medication is best for you will help tremendously in improving your health.

 

When using a prescribed medication from a doctor, please use as directed. Even if you are not on medication, it is important to see your doctor regularly and follow up as recommended. In the event that someone is in need of medical attention for a stroke, heart attack or intense chest pain, contact 911 immediately. By giving your cholesterol attention now, you could be preventing life-threatening injuries that could occur from health risks associated with cholesterol.

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