TOTAL CHOLESTEROL

Total Cholesterol is a measure of all the cholesterol in your blood, including:

1. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often called "bad cholesterol," it can build up in the walls of your arteries and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
2. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as "good cholesterol," it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
3. Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL): Another type of bad cholesterol, mainly consisting of triglycerides.

Total Cholesterol Levels (mg/dL):

• Desirable: Less than 200
• Borderline High: 200–239
• High: 240 or more

Why Total Cholesterol Matters

High levels of total cholesterol can lead to:

• Plaque buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis)
• Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease

Causes of High Cholesterol

• Unhealthy diet (high in saturated and trans fats)
• Lack of physical activity
• Smoking
• Obesity
• Genetics (familial hypercholesterolemia)
• Certain medical conditions (e.g., hypothyroidism, diabetes)
• Aging (cholesterol levels tend to rise with age)

How to Manage and Lower Total Cholesterol

1. Dietary Changes:

   • Reduce saturated and trans fats (found in fried foods, baked goods, and processed snacks).
   • Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
   • Add healthy fats, like those in nuts, seeds, avocados, and fatty fish (rich in omega-3).

2. Exercise Regularly:

   • Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise weekly.

3. Quit Smoking:

   • Improves HDL levels and overall heart health.

4. Maintain a Healthy Weight:

   • Losing even 5–10% of body weight can significantly improve cholesterol levels.

5. Medication (if needed):

   • Statins, bile acid sequestrants, niacin, or cholesterol absorption inhibitors may be prescribed by your doctor.