- Everyone has cholesterol, and it is necessary. There are two types: LDL, which is bad cholesterol, and HDL which is the good cholesterol which everyone needs. These make up total cholesterol.
- It is desirable for your total cholesterol reading to be less than 200. Over 240 is considered high. LDL should be under 130, with under 100 desirable. HDL should have a reading between 40 and 60.
- The main causes of high cholesterol are heredity and diet. You can't do much about your family history, but you can change your diet to a low fat regimen. Other factors are a sedentary lifestyle, smoking and overindulgence in alcohol.
- Many groups are at risk for high cholesterol. People with a family history of heart disease. diabetics, and extremely overweight people are at the greatest risks. Other risks are women over 55, African-Americans, Hispanics, people with high blood pressure and smokers.
- See a doctor and have a cholesterol screening. If your cholesterol is high, he may put you on a diet. In extreme cases, he may also prescribe some type of statin drug to help lower your cholesterol level. Watch your drinking, quit smoking and take a walk.