Cholesterol Facts
February 11, 2021
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance in your blood. Too much can clog your arteries and make heart attack or stroke more likely.
When you have your cholesterol checked it is divided into LDL, HDL and Triglycerides. LDL (Bad) +HDL (Good) +Triglycerides=total cholesterol.
It is best to keep the LDL low and the HDL normal or above normal. Foods that increase your HDL (Good) cholesterol are: olive oil, avocados, walnuts and almonds. Foods that decrease your LDL (Bad) cholesterol are: oatmeal, apples, oranges, salmon and tofu.
Try to avoid foods such as: egg yolks, fatty meats, shellfish, full fat dairy, processed snacks and alcohol.
To maintain a healthy cholesterol balance try to lose weight, eat a heart healthy diet, exercise, don’t smoke and get a regular check up with your doctor.
If you have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, be sure to discuss it with your primary care provider.
If you are looking for a cardiologist, Witham Heart Partners is accepting patients and we would love to become a part of your healthcare team.
Written by: Alana Hart RN, MSN, NP-C