News

Cholesterol Education Month

Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty substance that is found in every cell of the body. It is involved in the production of cell membranes, some hormones, vitamin D, bile acids, and other tissues in the body. It also insulates nerves. Cholesterol is produced in the liver, but we also get cholesterol from our diet.

The amount of cholesterol in the body depends on factors such as the rate of cholesterol production in the liver, the rate of cholesterol clearance from the body, the amount of dietary fat (particularly saturated fat) and to a lesser extent, cholesterol consumed.

The excess cholesterol in our body circulates in the bloodstream. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can clog blood vessels and increase the risk for heart disease and stroke.

Ways to control or lessen Cholesterol:

• Good eating habits- It is very important to follow good eating habits in order to lower your cholesterol.
• Regular exercising- Experts recommend at least 30 minutes or more of physical activity five days a week for at least 12 weeks for significant cholesterol reduction.
• Weight loss and maintaining it- You can lower your LDL (“bad cholesterol”) and elevate your HDL (“good cholesterol”) just by dropping some pounds.