Cholesterol levels - Hormone Wellness Center

What are cholesterol levels?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. There are two types:

• LDL cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol, can build up in your arteries and increase your risk for heart disease and stroke.
• HDL cholesterol, or "good" cholesterol, helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries.

When you get your cholesterol tested, results typically include:

• Total cholesterol - overall amount of cholesterol in your blood
• LDL cholesterol
• HDL cholesterol
• Triglycerides - another form of fat in your blood

Healthy cholesterol levels can reduce your risk for heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends:

• LDL: Less than 100 mg/dL
• HDL: 60 mg/dL or higher
• Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL

High cholesterol usually doesn't have signs or symptoms. The only way to know if your cholesterol levels are unhealthy is to get tested. Hormone Wellness Center provides comprehensive hormone and cholesterol testing to help you understand and optimize your health.

Factors that can increase LDL cholesterol include:

• Diet high in saturated fats
• Being overweight
• Lack of exercise
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Age and family history

You can help lower LDL or "bad" cholesterol by:

• Eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercising for 30 minutes most days
• Losing extra weight
• Quitting smoking
• Taking medication if needed

Maintaining healthy levels of both HDL and LDL cholesterol can go a long way towards reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke down the road. Get tested today to understand your current cholesterol profile. The medical team at Hormone Wellness Center can then work with you on diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes tailored to your unique health status and goals.