After two weeks from the medical checkup on July 22, 2008 I was informed to report to the nearest clinic for further check up. I was little bit worried by thinking what might have gone wrong with me.
After consulting the doctor, I was told to recheck my cholesterol level. First report says my LDL cholesterol level as 155 mg/dl. The limits specified in the chart is 70-139 mg/dl. The reconfirmation test also said the LDL cholesterol level as 149 mg/dl. Doctor advised me the importance of dieting inorder to bring the level within limits.
Cholesterol is an essential element of animal cell membranes and forms the structure of the body's hormones and bile acids. Maintaining Three types of cholesterol within limits are considered as important for better health.
Total cholesterol is the quantity of cholesterol in our blood. Cholesterol level is expressed in numbers is derived by the total amount of cholesterol and fat we eat combined with the amount of cholesterol manufactured by the liver.
LDL cholesterol or Low density Lipoprotein is known as bad cholesterol. LDL will clog up our arteries and cause heart attacks and strokes. LDL cholesterol comes from saturated fats and cholesterol laden foods. It can be conotrolled by Low fat, high fiber diet in co-ordination with exercise. This is what my doctor prescribed me.
LDL cholesterol can be genetic for many people. In such cases, cholesterol lowering medications can help and need expert doctor consultation.
HDL Cholesterol or high density lipoprotein is known as good cholesterol and is always acts againsts the LDL cholesterol. Recent medical reports show that HDL cholessterol can shovel the bad LDL cholesterol out of the cholesterol deposits that have formed in the arteries.
For production of HDL cholesterol, heredity plays an important role. Adding non-saturated fats such as olive oil and nuts and the omega-3 fatty acids found in Salmon and Tuna fishes will raise the HDL cholesterol level in the body.
Regular exercise will help to increase HDL level. Smoking will lower the HDL level. So, we have the options infront of us!
Triglycerides are the major lipids transported in the blood system. Triglycerides are the least dense fat and protein combinations. They are often called as VLDL - very low density lipoproteins. Excess VLDL in the blood will lead to diabetes, glucose intolerance, obesity, gout and coronary artery disease etc. Some VLDL cases are genetic while some develops due to eating habit such as eating too many refined carbohydrates, sugars and saturated fats and alcohol. When left untreated at the initial stages this can lead to diabetes and heart diseases.
A high fiber diet with whole grain cereals and breads, legumes, beans, fruits and vegetables will help to reduce high serum triglycerides. Walking is an effective measure to lower VLDL.In worst cases of high level VLDL, we need to take medication under a physician.
