High Cholesterol Specialist

What is cholesterol and why does it matter?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in every cell of the human body. It performs essential functions in manufacturing vitamin D, creating hormones, strengthening cell walls, and digesting food. Your body makes some cholesterol, and it obtains additional amounts from food.

There are two different types of cholesterol. Low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, are considered “bad” cholesterol, while high-density lipoproteins, or HDL, are considered “good” cholesterol.

Too much cholesterol can lead to numerous health problems. That’s why cholesterol screenings are part of routine checkups. Total cholesterol levels lower than 200 milligrams per deciliter are in the healthy range; levels that exceed 240 mg/dL should prompt active management.

What causes high cholesterol?

Researchers know that there's a genetic component to high cholesterol and that some medications can also increase cholesterol.

Women who are pregnant and individuals with an underactive thyroid can also encounter high cholesterol. Diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and kidney or liver disease can also play a causal role.

Other causes of high cholesterol are centered on dietary choices. Consuming significant volumes of animal products, including dairy, can increase your cholesterol. Fried foods and highly processed foods can also lead to problems.

What can be done to lower cholesterol?

The best way to lower your cholesterol is by making changes to your existing diet and exercise routines. Your doctor at Weingrow Wellness & Medical Center can assess your overall health, including screening for high cholesterol, and help you identify the changes that can bring the most significant improvements.

Just as some foods are known to increase cholesterol, there are other foods that researchers believe will lower your cholesterol. Examples include salmon, whole grains, fruits, and soy-based foods.

Medication can also play an essential role in reducing cholesterol. Statins, resins, fibrates, and selective cholesterol absorption inhibitors can all help lower cholesterol, but all come with a risk of side effects. The team at Weingrow Wellness & Medical Center may recommend medication to bring cholesterol back to manageable levels, then prefers to use diet and exercise to keep those levels where they are needed.

If you’re ready to get your cholesterol under control, call the office or schedule your appointment online today.