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Question (Feb 1, 2012 at 4:19pm)
Feb. 1, 2012 at 4:19pm
I just got the results of my blood test and am confused about my cholesterol numbers.
Posted in Questions by Anonymous
Comments (1)
You are right to want to better understand the numbers so that you can estimate your risk. Start with your total cholesterol. If it is over 240, your heart attack risk goes up by 72%.
It is even more important to know your cholesterol breakdown. Goals for LDL ("bad" cholesterol) are under 130 (or under 100 if you have one or more additional heart disease risk factors.) How can you improve LDL? Reduce the intake of saturated and trans fat, eat more fruits and veggies, and lose weight, if you need to.
The goal for your HDL ("good" cholesterol) is 60 or above. How to increase HDL? Exercise, exercise, exercise. Then have a glass of wine, eat fish and chew on a few nuts.
1 | Left by Anon | Feb. 1, 2012 at 4:21pm