Cholesterol: Good vs. Bad

The HDL or “good” one essentially protects the heart against attack. According to researchers, the HDL carries the cholesterol away from the arteries and back into the liver, where it is eventually passed from the body. They even go so far as to say that HDL removes excess plaque from the arteries.

If you have a monthly blood test, it will indicate the level of LDL and HDL in your body.

If your level is below 200, you are in good shape. If it is above 200, then you need to change your diet, exercise, and/or take medication to lower the bad and raise the good. In addition, your doctor will advise you to cease smoking. However, sometimes it is normally produced by the body, and you may be on medication for life; or there may be a family history of cholesterol. In either case, there are safe drugs available today such as Crestor and Lipitor, which are non-habit forming, and which can lower the bad by as much as 50%.

A healthy diet should consist of natural foods including fruits and vegetables and whole grains. Stay away from foods which contain large amount of it such as eggs, shellfish, shrimp and liver. Avoiding unsaturated fats; use vegetable oil when cooking; and drink skim milk instead of whole milk. Choose skinless chicken; lean beef and pork; and try to limit the portion. You know, diets work if the portions are smaller. This doesn’t mean you have to starve yourself. Eating small portions of food 3 or 4 times a day is fine, as long as you stick to the low-fat, non dairy plan.

There is an old saying, “Never go food shopping on an empty stomach.” It is so true! You tend to buy everything you see, some of which are sweets and which are not good for you at all. Another tip is to eat slowly; use smaller plates; and put your fork down between each bite. It really works!

Finally, decrease your level through exercise. It has been proven that 30 minutes of exercise daily can increase the good and decrease the bad. If you have no idea what your level is; have your doctor give you a blood test so that you know where you stand. It is important for your health and heart!