Cholesterol - Good, Bad...Huh? ( Part 2 )

How Do I Control My Intake?

A proven and accepted measure of control is to limit one's intake to no more that 6 ounces of lean meat/fish/poultry daily, and to consume only low fat/no fat dairy products. 

Effective substitutes for the protein necessary for good health can be found in beans and vegetables with high protein content.

It is also recommended that one adopt a regular exercise regimen.  Even a moderate amount of daily activity can help to increase the movement of blood through one's body. 

Physical activities such as leisurely walking, gardening, light yard work, housework and slow dancing are often prescribed as ideally suited for those who need a daily routine to help control the cholesterol levels.  

A more intense regimen can include brisk walking, jogging, swimming and weight-lifting.  Aerobic exercising is an excellent way to increase one's breathing and heart rates. 

Side benefits of a regularly scheduled exercise program can include weight control, reducing one's risk of developing diabetes, and helping to keep one's blood pressure at a healthy level. 

Regular moderate to intense exercise can also help to strengthen one's heart and lungs. 

To Smoke or Not to Smoke... 

Most physicians and specialists recommend that no one smoke.  And it has been proven that tobacco smoking increases the risk of heart disease. 

One's intake of oxygen, which is a necessary component for good vascular circulation and health, is drastically reduced. 

Plus, smoking is detrimental to HDL cholesterol levels and increases the possibility of blood clots, not to mention the risks of causing cancer in one's body. 

Synopsis:

- HDL is "good" cholesterol

- LDL is "bad" cholesterol

- An exercise regimen can help in lowering LDL and increasing HDL

- Cholesterol can be controlled with a sensible diet, for many people

- Smoking can increase the risks of lower HDL levels and the possibility of blood clots

Consult your physician or health care provider before embarking on any exercise regimen, or the consumption of alcohol, as a method to control one's cholesterol. 

He or she can direct you to what steps you need to take in order to ensure the best results for your efforts.

Have an annual screening (usually a blood drawing) to determine your cholesterol levels. 

Be sure to discuss family history and other issues which your doctor may want to know before deciding whether or not you should be checked for the Lp(a) lipoproteins. 

He or she can better determine your risks, the diagnosis, and possible treatment (which may include prescription medication) when fully informed.