A Diet To Lower Cholesterol

Cholesterol is often misunderstood by the majority of people due to lack of knowledge. Generally cholesterol is beneficial because it helps our bodies operate but it can be bad. Learning the difference concerning the bad cholesterol and the good cholesterol will help keep us healthy. So, it's very important that we learn all about cholesterol readings in regards to our diet to lower cholesterol.

The good cholesterol is called HDL cholesterol which stands for high-density lipoprotein. HDL's role is to help keep our body functioning properly and to maintain the cell walls so they are healthy. When we have high levels in our bodies it helps protect us against a heart attack whereas low levels increase the risk of heart disease. It is believed by experts that it helps carry bad cholesterol away from the arteries and liver where it is then expelled from the body.

The bad cholesterol is called LDL cholesterol which stands for low-density lipoprotein). An overabundance of this in your body can cause you to either have a heart attack or a stroke. It operates by slowly building up on your cell walls over time. It gradually narrows your arteries and eventually clogs them which results in you having a heart attack or a serious stroke.

This is why it is extremely important to get cholesterol readings. They typically include three items: a HDL cholesterol reading, a LDL cholesterol reading, and a total cholesterol reading. Most people just look for total cholesterol readings, but you need to keep an eye on all three readings.

When you go to the doctor to find your cholesterol readings, you need to know what the target range is for your cholesterol levels. Your HDL cholesterol analysis should be above the 45 and if it falls lower than 40 bad things can happen. Your LDL cholesterol analysis should be greater than 130 and if it gets above 160, you then should consider starting a diet to lower cholesterol. Results have shown that your total cholesterol should be under 200 and if it gets to 140, then you ought to discuss with your doctor.

You should always consult with your doctor when you have your cholesterol tested as he will be better able to tell you the exact course of action you need to take depending on your cholesterol reading results. If you turn out to have a high LDL cholesterol level, at that time you should start implementing a diet to lower cholesterol into your meal plans.

Once you understand all about cholesterol, you will feel more at ease when you acquire your cholesterol readings from your doctor. Just remember that you require more of the HDL cholesterol and you require less of the LDL cholesterol. Knowing your test outcome will greatly help you verify if you need a diet to lower cholesterol or medication.

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About The Author, Delynda Lardone
Delynda Lardone provides free information on lowering your cholesterol, including foods that lower cholesterol, reviews of some natural diets to lower cholesterol, and delicious recipes that lower your cholesterol. To discover more on how to cholesterol readings, please visit our website on Diet To Lower Cholesterol.