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These saturated fats are responsible for raising both the good and the bad cholesterol levels. The food high in cholesterol is especially dangerous because those are the foods that can raise cholesterol levels, lead to clogged arteries, and eventual heart disease. Reducing cholesterol in the blood is, therefore, the primary concern of any health-conscious person. As the arteries harden they are unable to pump blood properly, directly affecting the functioning of the heart. For these people, the reason for their high cholesterol levels might be due to a defect in their liver enzymes, in this case medication may be the only option for reducing cholesterol. A diet of mostly fruits and vegetables can work wonders for anyone afflicted with cholesterol.
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Remember, even those who have a normal cholesterol level can still be at risk for heart attack and stroke, so never ignore symptoms that might be signs of these serious health conditions. Though heredity has its role in high cholesterol level, diet is the main target of physicians when it comes to treating the condition. Health is the most important thing we have; however, most of us take it for granted and often do things that we live to regret. As long as the cholesterol range stays this way, there is no danger to ones health. Weight control, physical activity, and low-fat diet all increase the proportion of HDL in blood.
Within the human body there are two types of cholesterol. One type of cholesterol is known as the bad cholesterol or LDL. This type of cholesterol is fatty like in texture and when introduced into the bloodstream reacts with the proteins in the blood like oil and water for a non-blending effect.
Subsequently this LDL or bad cholesterol can cling to the arterial walls of the arteries and begin to build up. If allowed to continue this process may eventually cause a blockage of blood flow which may lead to heart disease or strokes.
The other type of cholesterol found within the body is good cholesterol or HDL cholesterol. This type of cholesterol mixes well with the proteins found in the bloodstream and helps to facilitate the important metabolic process that involves the appropriate level of cholesterol within the body.
Two important aspects of good cholesterol are to know the optimum level of good cholesterol and how to increase the level of good cholesterol.
Levels Of Good Cholesterol
When the results of the blood work are given to the doctor they are measured in milligrams. This mg (milligrams) represents the amount of cholesterol per deciliter of blood. Generally, a lipid blood test returns four separate measurements. Those four separate measurements are cholesterol levels, LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), triglyceride levels and HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol).
Good cholesterol is an important element needed by the human body. Cholesterol is produced by the liver within the body and combines with proteins found in the bloodstream to form lipoproteins. This process helps in the metabolic function to maintain the health of the body.
When the good cholesterol is reported to the physician through a patients lab work, it is important to note that the higher the cholesterol levels the better. This means that, for both men and women, 60 mg/dL and above is a good result that reflects the level of HDL cholesterol within the blood stream. This concentration of good cholesterol will help to protect the heart against heart disease.
On the other hand, a reading of 40 mg./dL or lower in men and 50 mg/dL or lower in women is not considered a good cholesterol level. Readings that fall within this range may be considered as levels of good cholesterol that leave the individual at risk for heart disease.
Increasing Good Cholesterol
If a patient receives a lab report that indicates that their good cholesterol is at a risky level, there are a number of practical steps that the individual can take. Three of those area deals with lifestyle changes and two practical suggestions address a persons diet.
Three lifestyle changes that may increase the level of good cholesterol include abstaining from smoking, maintaining a healthy weight and increasing the level of physical activity. That activity includes incorporating a vigorous cardiovascular activity sustained daily over a period of 30 to 60 minutes.
In addition, a persons good cholesterol level can be increased by eating fats that are better for the human body. Those fats may include margarines and the eating of omega 3 fatty acids. Examples of those types of food include nuts and fish. In addition, to increase good cholesterol levels, the consumption of alcohol should be in moderation.