Learn About Cholesterol

We often hear about cholesterol in the media and in magazines. But what does this mean, and should we be concerned?

Cholesterol is a type of fat that accumulates in your blood. If this fat collects too much in your blood vessels, it can restrict blood flow which can lead to dire medical problems. According to the American Heart Association, approximately 36 million Americans have high cholesterol.

You may be predisposed to high cholesterol because of your family’s medical history. High cholesterol seemsto be caused by a poor diet of foods containing saturated fats, and lack exercise.

If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, here are few questions about cholesterol you should ask your doctor about cholesterol at your next appointment:

1. What caused my high cholesterol? What is genetics or my lifestyle?
2. Is diet and exercise enough to control my high cholesterol or do I have to take medication?
3. Will losing weight be enough to regulate my cholesterol?
4. What is a healthy cholesterol level - good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol?
5. How often should I get my cholesterol checked?
6. What are the risks and side effects of my cholesterol medication?
7. Can I still enjoy a glass of alcohol with dinner when taking medication?
8. What foods should I avoid? Can I enoy these things in moderation?
9. How can I protect my kids from developing high cholesterol?

For more information on cholesterol, visit Lifescript.com.

The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor is it ever intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice or professional recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician(s) or other qualified healthcare provider(s).