Did you know that too much cholesterol in your blood can increase your risk of experiencing a heart attack or stroke?
That’s why during American Heart Month this February, our team at AFC Urgent Care Cleveland wants to offer some tips on how to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, as well as how to recognize the symptoms of high cholesterol.
What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in the cells of your body. It’s necessary to help the body make hormones, vitamin D and other substances that help your digestive system work. But you can have too much of it.
Because there aren’t usually symptoms associated with high cholesterol, regularly having your cholesterol checked is important.
Types of Cholesterol
- Low-density lipoproteins (LDL), or bad cholesterol
- High-density lipoproteins (HDL), or good cholesterol
- Triglycerides
What Are the Risk Factors for High Cholesterol?
You’re at an increased risk of developing high cholesterol if you have a family history of the condition, or if you have high blood pressure, are overweight or smoke.
How to Reduce Your Risk of High Cholesterol
- Get regular exercise.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Eat a healthy diet, limiting saturated fat, sodium and sugar.
- Don’t smoke.
When was the last time you had your cholesterol levels checked? Visit AFC Urgent Care Cleveland today for blood work to ensure your levels are right where they need to be.
