5 Essential Things You Should Know About Blood Cholesterol Level

Cholesterol is a type of fat found in the bloodstream and is essential for the body to function correctly. It is necessary for the production of hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids. However, when cholesterol levels become too high, it can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease and stroke. Knowing your blood cholesterol level is important in order to understand your risk of developing such conditions. Here are five things you should know about blood cholesterol level.

1. What is the Normal Range of Blood Cholesterol?

The normal range of total blood cholesterol is considered to be between 125 to 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Generally, levels below 200 mg/dL are considered safe and healthy, while levels above 200 mg/dL may indicate an increased risk for developing heart disease or stroke.

2. What are the Different Types of Cholesterol?

There are two main types of cholesterol found in the blood: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the walls of your arteries and lead to health issues. On the other hand, HDL cholesterol is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps remove excess LDL cholesterol from the body.

3. What Causes High Cholesterol?

There are several factors that can increase your risk for high cholesterol including age, gender, heredity, diet, physical activity, and smoking. Eating foods high in saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol can also contribute to higher levels in the blood. Additionally, conditions such as diabetes and hypothyroidism can lead to high cholesterol levels.

4. How Can High Cholesterol be Managed?

Making lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet low in saturated fats and exercising regularly can help lower cholesterol levels naturally. Additionally, medications such as statins may be prescribed by your doctor if lifestyle changes alone are not enough to reduce your cholesterol levels.

5. What Are the Risks of High Cholesterol?

Having high cholesterol levels increases your risk of developing heart disease or stroke because it can cause a buildup of plaque in your arteries which can lead to blocked arteries and restricted blood flow. This can lead to chest pain, heart attack, stroke, or even death if left untreated. Therefore it is important to get regular checkups with your doctor and have your blood cholesterol levels tested regularly to monitor your health.

Conclusion

It is important to understand what blood cholesterol is, its normal range, and how it can be managed in order to keep your heart healthy. Being aware of the different types of cholesterol and what causes them can help you make informed decisions about your lifestyle that may help you reduce or maintain a healthy level of blood cholesterol. Additionally, understanding the risks associated with high cholesterol can help you take proper steps towards preventing any complications from occurring due to this condition.