Introduction
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your body and certain foods. It’s important for building cell membranes, making hormones, and other bodily functions. But too much or too little cholesterol can be unhealthy. In this article, we’ll explore what is a healthy cholesterol level and the causes of high and low cholesterol. We’ll also discuss how to monitor your cholesterol levels and the lifestyle habits that affect cholesterol levels. Lastly, we’ll look at natural ways to manage cholesterol levels.
Overview of Healthy Cholesterol Levels
The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends having a total cholesterol level of less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). This includes both HDL (good) cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol. According to the AHA, “HDL cholesterol should be higher than 60 mg/dL, and LDL cholesterol should be less than 100 mg/dL.”
Causes of High and Low Cholesterol
High cholesterol can be caused by genetics, obesity, an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and drinking alcohol. Low cholesterol can be caused by genetics, malnutrition, thyroid problems, liver disease, kidney disease, and certain medications.
How to Monitor Your Cholesterol Levels
To monitor your cholesterol levels, you need to get a blood test from your doctor. The test measures your total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. If your cholesterol levels are high, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes and medication to help lower them.
Foods and Lifestyle Habits That Affect Cholesterol Levels
Eating healthy foods and exercising regularly can help keep your cholesterol levels in check. Foods that are high in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol can increase your cholesterol levels. Unsaturated fats, such as those found in fish, nuts, and olive oil, can help lower your cholesterol levels. Regular exercise can also help reduce cholesterol levels.
Other factors that can affect your cholesterol levels include age, gender, and family history. Men typically have higher cholesterol levels than women, and older adults tend to have higher cholesterol levels than younger adults. If you have a family history of high cholesterol, you may be more likely to have high cholesterol, too.
Natural Ways to Manage Cholesterol Levels
There are several natural ways to manage your cholesterol levels. Herbs and supplements, such as garlic, omega-3 fatty acids, and plant sterols, can help lower cholesterol levels. Essential oils, such as lemon and peppermint, can also help reduce cholesterol levels. Stress management techniques, such as yoga and meditation, can also help keep cholesterol levels in check.
Conclusion
Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is important for overall health. Understanding the causes of high and low cholesterol and monitoring your cholesterol levels can help you make lifestyle changes to keep your cholesterol levels in check. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and using natural remedies can all help manage cholesterol levels. With the right lifestyle habits, you can keep your cholesterol levels in a healthy range.
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