Cholesterol Facts and Quick Tips to a Healthy Lifestyle
Knowing what cholesterol is and how it affects your body can push you to a healthier lifestyle. Our body needs food, vitamins, and exercise in order to function well. However, there is more to food than just eating it and more to exercise than just doing it. We have to maintain a good balance between the two to achieve a healthy body. Choosing the right food and proper exercise can also lead to a healthier mind.
Good and Bad Cholesterol
There is good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL). HDL, LDL, and other fatty acids found in the blood make up your cholesterol levels. The body needs fatty acids because they assist cell membrane development and functions; and help transport oxygen through the bloodstream to other parts of the body. HDL cholesterol is responsible for cleaning the arteries and protects against plaque build up that can lead to blockage. LDL cholesterol is responsible for carrying and delivering cholesterol in to our body cells. However, they easily deposit plaques in our arteries.
Triglyceride is another fatty acid that contributes to plaque build-up in the arteries, causing cardiovascular diseases. The body needs triglycerides to help release energy when needed but when the body is not using too much energy, the acid just forms fat and clogs the arteries.
It is important to keep proper balance of the three fatty acids because too much of LDL and Triglyceride can lead to blocked arteries. Low levels of HDL cholesterol are not enough to flush away LDL and triglyceride out of the bloodstream, therefore leading to plaque build-up.
Tips in Maintaining Your Cholesterol
The best way to lower and maintain the right cholesterol levels is to watch what you eat and exercise. If you are suffering from high cholesterol levels, your physician might prescribe medication.
Diet – choose food that is low in saturated fat. Pack your own lunch that consists of vegetables and fruits instead of opting for a quick run at a fast food joint.
Exercise – this is important because it keeps your heart pumping for proper blood circulation. This will prevent plaque build-up in your artery walls.
Check-up – regular check-ups with your physician help you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Let your doctor know if you are feeling odd symptoms.
High cholesterol levels can lead to diseases like heart disease and stroke. It is important to learn about your cholesterol levels early for prevention. If you are already suffering from high cholesterol levels, make it a habit to monitor what you eat and have routine check-up with your health care provider to maintain good health.
Source:
http://www.realage.com/health-guides/cholesterol-and-heart-disease
http://www.realage.com/health-guides/good-and-bad-cholesterol
