Most of us love those cholesterol-rich foods, such as bacon, dairy products, egg yolks, etc. But have you ever stopped to think about what these foods are doing to your cholesterol? Unfortunately, most of us haven’t. That’s why it is crucial to make sure you are getting checked regularly.
Blood cholesterol is a fat substance created by your liver. Your body needs this blood cholesterol to perform certain functions. However, dietary cholesterol is derived from the foods that we take in.
There are different types of cholesterol to watch. For example, LDL ( bad cholesterol) makes up most of your body’s cholesterol. Increased amounts can put you at risk for heart disease or stroke. HDL (good cholesterol) is responsible for the absorption of cholesterol to take it back to the liver to be filtered. Increased HDL cholesterol can lower your heart disease and stroke risk.
The only proper way to know your cholesterol levels is to have them checked by a health care professional. A blood panel will show the amounts of different cholesterol in your blood. This will tell your doctor what treatments you may require if you do, in fact, have elevated cholesterol. In mild cases, diet and exercise can lower cholesterol without needing medication.
According to the CDC, healthy adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4-6 years. However, those with health problems such as heart disease or elevated cholesterol in their family history should have their cholesterol checked more frequently. Adolescents and children will typically have their cholesterol checked between 9 and 11 years old and again around age 17. Talk with your health care provider about when you should have your cholesterol checked based on your personal medical history.
Your primary care provider can check your cholesterol and discuss your options if necessary.
Our team of professional and friendly providers can also help you stay on top of your health with an exam and onsite lab. So stop by and see us, no appointment necessary, for your physical at one of our convenient Advanced Urgent Care & Aesthetics locations.
