Maintaining Healthy Cholesterol Levels

There is no doubt that a healthy cholesterol level is one important step in maintaining good health. You’ve probably heard plenty about how to keep those cholesterol numbers where you want them; so much that your head might be reeling from all the information. The good news is that it isn’t as hard to learn how to maintain a healthy cholesterol level as you might think. With a few simple steps, you will be on the road to better cholesterol numbers and a healthier cardiovascular system overall.

• What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver for a whole host of functions, such as supporting the transmission of messages throughout the nervous system. While some cholesterol will go a long way in supporting many functions of the body, too much will begin to clog your arteries and up the risk of heart attack and stroke. Unfortunately, the typical American diet is filled with many kinds of fat, which can increase cholesterol until the body has serious problems. That is why it is so important to keep a close eye on your cholesterol level, so you can assess your risk factor and keep those important numbers in check.

• Keeping it Down

The approach to maintaining a healthy cholesterol level includes a number of steps that will all contribute to your better health and a higher quality of life. The first step is to schedule regular screenings so your doctor can stay abreast of your cholesterol level. The general guideline is for men to begin screening at the age of 35 and women to begin by the time they hit 45. However, if there is a family history of cardiovascular disease or other problems, those screenings for cholesterol level might begin a whole lot sooner.

Diet and exercise are two more keys to a healthy cholesterol level. A diet that is low in saturated and trans fats will help to lower "bad" cholesterol (the LDL cholesterol level), while a regimen of daily exercise will raise "good" cholesterol (HDL). This is the perfect combination to an optimal cholesterol level and a healthier life overall. Your weight will also make a difference in your cholesterol level, and the process of shedding excess pounds will even raise "good" cholesterol. Diet and exercise are good places to start in this area.

If you cannot get your cholesterol level under control despite your best efforts, your doctor will have other treatment options for you to try. A healthy cholesterol level will make all the difference in a healthier body and a higher quality of life.