Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. We get cholesterol from foods that come from animals, like meat, eggs, and dairy. The body also makes its own cholesterol.
There are two main types of cholesterol:
- LDL cholesterol, also called "bad" cholesterol - LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein. LDL cholesterol builds up on the walls of your arteries, causing plaque. This plaque narrows and hardens arteries over time, which can restrict blood flow. Higher levels of LDL cholesterol raise your risk for heart disease and stroke.
- HDL cholesterol, also called "good" cholesterol - HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein. HDL cholesterol carries LDL cholesterol back to your liver so your body can get rid of it. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are linked to lower risk of heart disease and stroke.
Cholesterol levels are measured with a blood test. When your doctor checks your cholesterol levels, he or she will look at:
- Total cholesterol level
- HDL (good) cholesterol level
- LDL (bad) cholesterol level
- Triglycerides level
Optimal cholesterol levels are:
- Total cholesterol below 200 mg/dL
- LDL cholesterol below 100 mg/dL
- HDL cholesterol 60 mg/dL or higher
- Triglycerides below 150 mg/dL
If your cholesterol levels are high, your doctor may prescribe medication or recommend lifestyle changes like exercising more, quitting smoking, and eating a healthier diet.
At
Vitality Balance Clinic, we offer cutting-edge testing and treatment plans tailored to help patients optimize their hormone and cholesterol levels. Our expert physicians stay current on the latest medical research and use advanced testing to provide personalized care.
We know that high cholesterol is a silent threat, often showing no signs or symptoms until further complications arise. That's why we recommend adults start getting their cholesterol checked regularly around age 20.
Through comprehensive testing, we can identify genetic and lifestyle factors influencing your cholesterol. Then we develop customized treatment plans that may include
medication, nutrition planning, fitness coaching, and hormone therapy. Our goal is to help patients lower their risk of heart disease by achieving healthy cholesterol ranges.
Contact us today to schedule advanced cholesterol testing and find out how our individualized programs can help you take control of your heart health.