Colesterol

Providers test your blood for three main types:

• High-density lipoprotein — This is the “good” kind. HDL takes cholesterol out of your body.
• Low-density lipoprotein — This is the “bad” kind. LDL builds up and blocks the arteries.
• Triglycerides — This is the fat in your blood your body uses for energy. A high level increases your risk of heart disease or stroke.

Your total cholesterol is a blend of the three numbers. A higher total means you have a greater risk for heart disease.

You should aim for these levels:

• HDL: 40 mg/dL or higher
• LDL: less than 130 mg/dl
• Triglycerides: less than 150 mg/dl
• Total cholesterol: less than 200 mg/dl

Talk to you provider about what your levels should be.

How to manage your cholesterol:

• Si tiene sobrepeso, elimine algunas libras.
• Exercise at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.
• Avoid saturated fat in meats, whole milk dairy products and many prepared foods.
• Limit or avoid drinking alcohol.
• Deje de fumar.