Cholesterol Levels - Hormonal Harmony Clinic

What is Niveles de Colesterol? A Comprehensive Guide

Niveles de colesterol, or cholesterol levels, refer to the amount of cholesterol in your blood. But what exactly is cholesterol, and why should you care about its levels? Let's dive in!

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that's essential for building and maintaining healthy cells. However, too much cholesterol can be a real problem. It can build up in your arteries, forming plaques that harden and narrow your blood vessels—this is called atherosclerosis. This narrowing can restrict blood flow, leading to serious health issues.

What are the different types of cholesterol?

There are two main types:

• LDL cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol): High levels of LDL cholesterol contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries. Think of it as the "bad guy" clogging up the works.
• HDL cholesterol ("good" cholesterol): HDL cholesterol helps remove LDL cholesterol from your arteries, essentially cleaning up the mess. It's the "good guy" keeping things flowing smoothly.

Why are my cholesterol levels important?

High cholesterol, particularly high LDL cholesterol, is a major risk factor for several serious health problems, including:

• Heart disease: This is the leading cause of death globally, and high cholesterol plays a significant role.
• Stroke: A stroke occurs when blood supply to the brain is interrupted. High cholesterol increases your risk.
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD): This affects blood flow to your limbs, causing pain and potentially leading to amputation.

What are considered healthy cholesterol levels?

While specific numbers may vary slightly depending on your doctor and other health factors, generally:

• Total cholesterol: Below 200 mg/dL is considered desirable.
• LDL cholesterol: Less than 100 mg/dL is optimal. Numbers between 100-129 mg/dL are near optimal/above optimal, while 130-159 mg/dL is considered borderline high, and anything over 160 mg/dL is high.
• HDL cholesterol: Higher is better! Levels above 60 mg/dL are considered protective.

How can I improve my cholesterol levels?

Don't worry if your numbers aren't where they should be! There are plenty of ways to improve your cholesterol levels:

• Diet: A diet low in saturated and trans fats and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is key. Think lean meats, fish, and plenty of fiber!
• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
• Weight management: Losing even a small amount of weight can make a big difference in your cholesterol levels.
• Medication: If lifestyle changes aren't enough, your doctor might prescribe medication, such as statins.

In short: Keeping an eye on your niveles de colesterol is crucial for your long-term health. A simple blood test can give you a clear picture of your cholesterol levels and help your doctor determine the best course of action to keep your heart healthy and happy. Don't hesitate to talk to your doctor if you have any concerns! You've got this!

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.