Cholesterol levels - Renew Wellness

What are Cholesterol Levels?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is found in all cells of the body. It is an essential molecule that is used to build cell membranes, make hormones like estrogen and testosterone, form bile acids for digesting fats, and produce vitamin D. Cholesterol comes from two sources: our body makes all the cholesterol it needs, and we also get cholesterol from foods that come from animals, like meat, eggs, and dairy.

There are two main types of cholesterol:

• LDL cholesterol, also called "bad" cholesterol. LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein. This type of cholesterol builds up on the walls of arteries and increases your risk for heart disease and stroke.
• HDL cholesterol, also called "good" cholesterol. HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein. This type carries cholesterol from other parts of your body back to your liver so it doesn't build up in arteries.

When we get our cholesterol tested, we get results for our total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Here's what the numbers mean:

• Total cholesterol: Below 200 mg/dL is considered desirable, 200-239 mg/dL is borderline high, and 240 mg/dL and above is considered high.
• LDL cholesterol: Below 100 mg/dL is optimal, 100-129 mg/dL is near optimal, 130-159 mg/dL is borderline high, 160-189 mg/dL is high, and 190 mg/dL and above is very high.
• HDL cholesterol: Below 40 mg/dL (for men) and 50 mg/dL (for women) is considered a major risk factor for heart disease. 60 mg/dL and above is considered protective.
• Triglycerides: Below 150 mg/dL is normal, 150-199 mg/dL is borderline high, 200-499 mg/dL is high, and 500 mg/dL and above is very high.

Why do cholesterol levels matter? High LDL cholesterol, low HDL cholesterol, and high triglycerides can increase your risk for atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke. Atherosclerosis happens when cholesterol builds up on artery walls and forms plaque that makes arteries narrow and less flexible. This can restrict blood flow and oxygen to the heart and brain.

How can you improve cholesterol levels? Here are some tips:

• Eat a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and trans fats. Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, fish, and healthy oils like olive and canola oil.
• Limit red meat, full-fat dairy, fried foods, baked goods, and other high cholesterol foods.
• Get regular exercise for at least 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week.
• Achieve and maintain a healthy body weight.
• Don't smoke and limit alcohol intake.
• Take medication if prescribed by your doctor. Statins are commonly prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol.
• Consider nutritional supplements like fish oil, psyllium husk fiber, and plant sterols to help lower LDL.

At Renew Wellness, we offer advanced cholesterol testing and work with you to optimize all your hormone levels for heart health. Our expert physicians develop customized treatment plans involving bioidentical hormones, nutrition planning, and lifestyle changes to get your cholesterol on track. Our holistic approach addresses the root causes of high cholesterol rather than just masking the symptoms. We look forward to helping you achieve healthy cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease.

In summary, cholesterol is an important substance in the body, but too much "bad" LDL cholesterol can be harmful. Getting your cholesterol tested and knowing your levels is key. Lifestyle changes and medication if needed can help optimize cholesterol. Consider getting advanced testing and a customized treatment plan from hormone specialists like Renew Wellness. Healthy cholesterol levels are important for protecting your heart and blood vessels.