Resources for A Healthy Lifestyle
What is Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a naturally occurring substance in the blood that is manufactured from saturated fats in the diet. Cardiovascular disease and obesity are two diseases that have been linked to excessive levels of cholesterol circulating in the blood. It's therefore important to keep cholesterol levels within normal levels by eating a diet lower in fats. If levels are elevated despite dietary measures there are medications designed to lower cholesterol levels.Normal value: less than 200
Cholesterol Lowering Medications
There are two types of cholesterol:
- Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL)
Carries cholesterol in the plasma. LDL has been associated with heart disease and is sometimes referred to as "bad cholesterol".Normal values: less than 130
Borderline: 130 - 159
High Risk: greater than 160 - High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL)
Also known as the "good cholesterol". Higher levels of HDL have been shown to decrease the risk of heart disease.Normal values:
- Male - 44
- Female - 55
What are Triglycerides?
Triglycerides are lipids (fats) that come both from animal and vegetable food sources. Excess triglycerides are stored in the body as adipose (fat) tissue and are used for energy. Fatty meals and alcohol can raise the triglyceride level in the blood. Some HIV medications can dramatically elevate levels, requiring lipid lowering medication to bring levels down.Normal values: 90 - 150
Elevated values: can result from diet, certain medications, and conditions such as pancreatitis, nephrotic syndrome, and diabetes.
