How To Grasp Cholesterol Readings On A Diet To Lower Cholesterol
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by: DelyndaLardone
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Cholesterol often gives everyone the wrong impression that it is all bad, but if we took the time to understand just exactly what is cholesterol, then we will be able to understand our cholesterol readings that we get from our doctor. Cholesterol can be good because it assists our bodies function properly and it can be harmful as well by clogging up our arteries. Understanding the distinction between the two will help us better able to manage our diet to lower cholesterol.
The good cholesterol is called HDL cholesterol which stands for high-density lipoprotein. HDL's role is to help keep our body functioning properly and to maintain the cell walls so they are healthy. When we have high levels in our bodies it helps protect us against a heart attack whereas low levels increase the risk of heart disease. It is believed by experts that it helps carry bad cholesterol away from the arteries and liver where it is then expelled from the body.
The bad cholesterol is called LDL cholesterol which stands for low-density lipoprotein). An overabundance of this in your body can cause you to either have a heart attack or a stroke. It operates by slowly building up on your cell walls over time. It gradually narrows your arteries and eventually clogs them which results in you having a heart attack or a serious stroke.
This is why people should obtain a cholesterol reading, especially if they have a family history of high cholesterol. Typically there are three cholesterol readings people will receive: the LDL cholesterol reading, the total cholesterol reading, and the HDL cholesterol reading. All three need to be looked at to make sure you are in the normal ranges as most people usually only consider the total cholesterol reading.
It is good to know the normal cholesterol reading so when you get your cholesterol reading back from your doctor, you will know exactly what your cholesterol levels are. You HDL cholesterol levels should be over 45 and you will need to consult your doctor if they fall below 40. Your LDL cholesterol levels should be under 130 and if they reach 160 or higher, then you will need to start on a diet to lower cholesterol. Your total cholesterol levels should be less than 200 and if they reach 140 you should check with your doctor because it can be extremely dangerous.
To get your cholesterol tested, you should consult your doctor and he will be able to test your cholesterol levels. If you do wind up having a high cholesterol level, then you can change some things in your diet to lower cholesterol which will help in reducing cholesterol before your next visit. Make sure your diet has plenty of protein which you can find in dark meat and fish. Also include 6 servings of fruit and vegetables in your daily means and try to stay away from foods high in fat.
Once you understand all about cholesterol, you will feel more at ease when you acquire your cholesterol readings from your doctor. Just remember that you require more of the HDL cholesterol and you require less of the LDL cholesterol. Knowing your test outcome will greatly help you verify if you need a diet to lower cholesterol or medication.
About the Author
Delynda Lardone provides free information on how to lower your cholesterol, including tips on foods that lower cholesterol, reviews of some natural diets to lower cholesterol, and low cholesterol recipes. To discover more information on cholesterol readings, please visit our website on Diet To Lower Cholesterol.
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