Most people have labeled cholesterol as bad, but it's not, at least not in its entirety. There are two classifications for this: one is the HDL cholesterol which is "favorable" to the body and the other side is the LDL cholesterol , the less favorable.
One way to prevent heart problems related to high cholesterol levels, is frequently reviewing levels in your blood, and also know the levels of the two classifications; the good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL).
The American Heart Association classifies Total cholesterol levels in these three ranges:
1. Less than 200 mg / dL (optimal): This is the level that is looking to have, because it presents a lower risk of developing coronary heart disease. If cholesterol levels are 200 mg / dL or greater, there is increased risk of heart problems.
2. In. 200-239 mg / dL: the risk is limited. This level is a warning sign.
3. 240 mg / dL or more : it is listed as high cholesterol. Someone who have these levels, is more than twice as likely to develop coronary heart disease risk than someone who get lower levels of 200 mg / dL.
It acts as a maintenance crew to the inner walls of the veins (the endothelium ). Damage to the endothelium is the initial part of the process of atherosclerosis. One of the benefits of HDL is to help repair and maintain the endothelium in good condition and prevent heart attack or stroke resulting from arteriosclerosis.
HDL cholesterol levels
According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the following levels are considered:
In women: HDL cholesterol levels below 50 mg / dL are classified as low. The average good levels in women range is 50-60 mg / dL.
In men: levels below 40 mg / dL are considered low. The average level of good cholesterol in men is 40-50 mg / dL.
Unlike the bad cholesterol (LDL), the good cholesterol (HDL), the highest levels are better for health. According to the AHA, having low levels of HDL cholesterol, represents an increased risk of cardiovascular problems. Having levels of "good cholesterol" that range from 60 mg / dL or more, may provide some protection against heart disease.
Smoking, being overweight and lack of physical activity are factors that can reduce levels of good cholesterol (HDL), the aim is that these levels do not fall, but remain high within a healthy range.
It tends to accumulate in the walls of the veins and arteries. When your levels are high, it represents a higher risk of heart attack or stroke. The nice feature of bad cholesterol is that if your levels are known, one can determine the degree of risk for heart disease.
LDL cholesterol levels
Levels below 100 mg / dL are considered optimum by the AHA. From 100 to 129 md / dL acceptable. From 130-159 md / dL , as "borderline". From 160-189 md / dL are considered high levels, and equal to or greater than 190 mg / dL are assessed as "very high".
For this type of cholesterol, it is even more important to see a doctor because optimal levels vary from person to person. What level is good for someone may not be for another individual. However, the low levels of LDL cholesterol are linked to lower chance of having heart attacks or other heart problems.
How to reduce LDL cholesterol?
It is vital that you first consult you doctor who will provide specific guidelines. The best ways to lower your levels naturally is by following a healthy diet with decreased intake of saturated and trans fats, increasing physical activity by performing aerobic exercise, eating foods rich in fiber and stop smoking.
Remember to go to your doctor regularly, know your cholesterol and meets their guidelines to prevent future disease.