September is National Cholesterol Education Month. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance in your blood. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is essential for good health, but too much of the bad kind of cholesterol (LDL, low-density lipoprotein) can put you at a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.
The most common risk factors for high cholesterol include:
- Consuming too much saturated fat (found in fatty meat, butter, lard, and full-fat dairy products) and trans-fat (found in packaged snacks and desserts)
- Lack of exercise
- A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or greater
- Tobacco and Alcohol use
- Family history of heart disease
Monitoring cholesterol levels early in life is recommended. If any of the risk factors above apply to you, speak to a doctor about developing a plan to prevent high cholesterol. Effective ways to manage cholesterol levels at home include:
- Increase daily exercise (exercise helps to improve good cholesterol levels; plan for 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week)
- Weight loss if you are considered overweight or obese
- Stay adequately hydrated (aim to consume 8 x 8oz of water or sugar-free liquids daily)
- Adopt a healthy, well-balanced diet
- Cut out tobacco products
You can learn more about the five ways BaySport supports cholesterol month from a BaySport team member or by visiting our website, www.baysport.com.
Source:
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol
