What You Need to Know About
Cholesterol
What is cholesterol?
• Cholesterol is a waxy substance. It’s produced by the liver. It’s also in certain foods such as meat, eggs, dairy products and cheese. Your body needs some cholesterol, but the liver makes all that the body needs. When there’s too much cholesterol in the body, it builds up in the arteries. This causes “hardening of the arteries” and can cause a narrowing. The narrowing causes a decrease in blood flow. When an artery in the heart becomes too narrow, it can lead to a heart attack. When an artery in the brain becomes too narrow, it can lead to a stroke.
Types of cholesterol.
• There are two kinds of cholesterol. Low-density or LDL is known as the “bad” cholesterol. High levels of LDL can lead to heart illness. High-density or HDL is known as the “good” cholesterol. HDL gives some protection against heart illness.
What makes high levels of cholesterol?
• Your cholesterol level is determined by a number of factors.
• What you can’t change about cholesterol –
o Your family history.
o Your age.
o Before the age of 50, men’s cholesterol levels tend to be higher than women’s.
• What we can change about cholesterol -
o Being sedentary (not getting enough physical activity). Being active can help to lower cholesterol. Being active also assists to increase the levels of “good” cholesterol.
o Consuming foods high in saturated fat, which may increase cholesterol levels.
o Being overweight or obese, which is linked to higher cholesterol levels and higher levels of the “bad” cholesterol.
What can you do about cholesterol?
• Have your cholesterol level checked. Most individuals with high cholesterol do not have any signs. Speak with your provider about when and how often you should have your cholesterol level checked.
• Make sure to eat a diet low in saturated fat. Make sure to choose lean cuts of meat or fish. Make sure to eat turkey or chicken without the skin. Make sure to choose low-fat cheeses, milk products and dairy products. Avoid foods that are fried.
• Be sure to eat more fruits and vegetables.
• Be physically active. Aim for 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day. If you have not been active, talk with your provider before you start. Remember to start slowly.
Maintain a healthy weight.
• Being overweight or obese can increase your cholesterol levels. Losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol level and increase your HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Speak to your healthcare team about the MOVE. Weight Management Program for Veterans. MOVE. can help you lose weight and keep it off.