When it comes to your cholesterol, you have to think about the good with the bad. High-density lipoprotein, HDL cholesterol, is known as "good" cholesterol because high levels of HDL seem to protect against heart attack. On the other hand, too much low-density lipoprotein, or LDL (bad) cholesterol, circulating in the blood can clog your arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.
Follow these tips to keep HDL up and LDL down:
- Eat foods low in saturated and trans fats and cholesterol
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get regular physical activity
- Take medicine, if needed, as prescribed
- Follow your doctor's recommendations
- Commit to better and maintain your health
If you haven't by this time, call your doctor to schedule a cholesterol screening. By keeping up a proactive approach, you can keep total cholesterol down. Use the Personal Health Manger's features to track your cholesterol test results—online through Blue Access® for Members.
Source: American Heart Association
