VISITING ANGELS GADSDEN, AL 256-507-0083
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Understanding Cholesterol

Understanding Cholesterol

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 38 percent of adults in the United States have high cholesterol. Living with high cholesterol increases your risk of developing heart disease and stroke, both of which are leading causes of death in the country. September is Cholesterol Awareness Month, making it a great time to learn the facts about cholesterol and how to keep your cholesterol levels from spiking. 

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance produced by the liver. Cholesterol is not inherently bad. It’s to build cells and make hormones and vitamins. The liver creates all the cholesterol the body needs to function. However, many foods, such as red meats, dairy, and foods high in saturated and trans-fat, also have cholesterol. If eaten in small amounts, the body can flush out or use the cholesterol from these foods. But if too much cholesterol is in the body, cholesterol levels rise as the body can’t use or get rid of it fast enough.

There are two types of cholesterol; low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL is considered the bad cholesterol that can build up in artery walls and spike cholesterol levels. HDL is called the good cholesterol that moves excess cholesterol to the liver. 

The Risks of High Cholesterol

Cholesterol moves through the body via the bloodstream by attaching to proteins, and this combination is called a lipoprotein. When there is too much cholesterol in the body, it sticks to the artery walls and increases your risk of various conditions such as heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. 

There are no symptoms of high cholesterol, so it’s essential to get your cholesterol checked every year after 45. High cholesterol is most prone in overweight, have diets high in saturated and trans-fat, smoke, and have a family history of high cholesterol. High cholesterol is also common in those with chronic kidney disease, diabetes, HIV/AIDS, hypothyroidism, and lupus. 

Tips for Lowering Your Cholesterol

If you have high cholesterol or are at risk for high cholesterol, consider these tips for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. 

  • Understand your risk- Most people with high cholesterol don’t know their cholesterol levels are high. If you’re concerned about your cholesterol or unaware of your levels, talk to your doctor about getting your cholesterol checked. Doctors can check your cholesterol with a blood test and tell you if you’re at risk of developing high cholesterol. 
  • Talk with your doctor- If you have high cholesterol, talk to your doctor about your risk of developing cholesterol-related conditions, such as heart disease. Some people with high cholesterol can manage their levels with lifestyle changes, and others may need medication. Be open and honest with your doctor about your concerns, and they’ll happily guide the best route to route your cholesterol. 
  • Eliminate saturated fats from your diet- Saturated fats are in many animal and animal byproducts, such as milk and cheese. If you have a diet high in meat and dairy, you’re at a higher risk for high cholesterol. Try to eliminate saturated fats from your diet by eating more lean meats like fish and chicken. You can also find dairy alternatives such as products made with soy or almond milk. 
  • Maintain a healthy weight-People who are overweight or obese have a greater chance of developing high cholesterol. You can maintain a healthy weight by finding fun ways to move your body daily. You can also make changes to your diet to include less processed foods and more fresh produce. If you’re struggling with weight, talk to your doctor about safe ways to lose weight and take care of your body. 
  • Quit smoking- Smokers generally have higher cholesterol than nonsmokers. Reduce your chances of developing high cholesterol and other health concerns by quitting. Smoking is an addictive habit, so if you’re struggling to quit, talk to your doctor about treatment options and know it’s never too late to stop.

How Visiting Angels Can Help

If you or an aging loved one is living with high cholesterol or related health concerns and needs assistance at home, the team at Visiting Angels Gadsden, Alabama, can help. Our at-home caregivers help seniors with light housekeeping, meal preparations, medication reminders, transportation, mobility, personal grooming, showering, toileting, and more. Our Gadsden office serves those in Blount, Marshall, Etowah Counties, and the surrounding areas. If you’d like to learn more about our services, you can complete this form online or call us at 256.507.0083.

Serving Blount, Marshall, Etowah Counties and the surrounding areas

Visiting Angels GADSDEN, AL
815 Riverbend Dr #A
Gadsden, AL 35901
Phone: 256-507-0083

Serving Blount, Marshall, Etowah Counties and the surrounding areas

Visiting Angels GADSDEN, AL
815 Riverbend Dr #A
Gadsden, AL 35901
Phone: 256-507-0083