Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a substance used by the body to build healthy cells and vital hormones. Our bodies produce low-density lipidprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipidprotein (HDL) and triglycerides, a kind of fat in the blood.

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is the accumulation of LDL cholesterol, a waxy, fatty deposit that clogs the blood vessels and interrupts blood flow. HDL cholesterol is good because it discourages the buildup of the LDL cholesterol in your arteries.

Testing

Your blood cholesterol rating is determined through a fasting blood test. You must not eat for 12 hours before blood is drawn, and then a lipid profile is compiled that determines your LDL rating, your HDL rating and your total cholesterol rating.

Interpreting Results

LDL cholesterol rating of180mg/dl is very high and puts you at risk for heart attack and stroke. HDL cholesterol rating less than 40mg/dl is seriously low and also puts you at risk. Total cholesterol rating of 240 or higher puts you at serious risk.

Prevention/Treatment

Your cholesterol rating is determined in part by your age and family history. However, high cholesterol can be controlled and treated by living a healthy lifestyle that includes a balanced diet with fewer animal-based foods, plenty of fruits and vegetables and regular exercise. If your blood cholesterol is elevated, your doctor may prescribe medication to use in conjunction with diet and exercise to lower your high cholesterol results.

Source:

American Heart Association

Mayo Clinic