An LDL count of or less is considered healthy. Healthy triglyceride counts are or less. If your numbers are higher than , check with your physician — you may have a higher HDL count, which is not unhealthy. Maintaining healthy levels of cholesterol is manageable. Medication is key, along with eating a healthy diet with lots of vegetables and getting regular exercise.
This is why women who had favorable cholesterol values during their childbearing years might end up with elevated cholesterol later in life. Of course, genetics and lifestyle factors can play big roles, too. Medication: Depending on your overall cardiovascular disease risk, you might be treated with a cholesterol-lowering medication, such as a statin.
If you already have vascular disease or evidence of atherosclerosis, or if you are at high risk for cardiovascular disease, a statin for prevention is strongly recommended because this treats the plaque in the arteries, and lowers LDL cholesterol, Michos says. While nobody wants to have high cholesterol, there are plenty of ways to keep it in check.
One of the best things you can do to protect and improve your health is to stay informed. If you have a new or existing heart problem, it's vital to see a doctor. Our heart health checklist can help you determine when to seek care. Health Home Wellness and Prevention. Understanding the Highs and Lows of Cholesterol You know that too much is dangerous. And guess what? This buildup can start as early as your 20s. What to Know About Triglycerides In addition to cholesterol, you might hear about your triglycerides, another kind of fat found in the bloodstream.
Why Cholesterol Affects Women Differently In general, women have higher levels of HDL cholesterol than men because the female sex hormone estrogen seems to boost this good cholesterol. There are several ways to manage it, including: Medication: Depending on your overall cardiovascular disease risk, you might be treated with a cholesterol-lowering medication, such as a statin.
Exercise for at least 30 minutes five or more days per week. Learn more: 7 cholesterol-lowering drugs ». High cholesterol can be concerning. If you have high cholesterol and act to reduce it, your risk of heart disease and stroke will most likely decrease. Lifestyle steps that help reduce cholesterol also support your overall health. Eating a healthy diet is an important first step. Here are some changes you can make today:. Learn more: The practical step guide to breaking up with sugar ».
Exercise may also have a positive impact on your cholesterol levels. If you work at a desk, set an alarm on your cellphone or computer, or get a fitness tracker to remind you to get up and move for five minutes each hour. Try to fit in at least 30 minutes of exercise daily. Walking, swimming, or riding a bike are great options. Smoking increases your risk of not only high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease, but also many types of cancer. The earlier you know your cholesterol numbers, the sooner you can take steps to manage them.
Learn more. Cholesterol ratio can give you additional information about your heart disease risk. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Breast Cancer. The Recommended Cholesterol Levels by Age. Adults Children Treatment Tips Talking with a doctor We include products we think are useful for our readers. Cholesterol in adults. Cholesterol in children. Cholesterol treatment options. Lifestyle changes. When to speak with a doctor. Read this next. Medically reviewed by Alana Biggers, M.
Medically reviewed by Deborah Weatherspoon, Ph. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Medically reviewed by Peggy Pletcher, M. What to Know About Familial Hypertriglyceridemia.
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