Cholesterol is a set of waxy lipid-like substances that are critical in several physiological processes. For instance, these compounds are vital for the synthesis of cell membranes and vitamin D production, as well as hormone development and fat digestion.
An optimal amount of cholesterol produced by the liver in our body to sustain its proper functioning of our body. Additionally, cholesterol is absorbed in our body from various food sources like meat, fatty products etc. That additional part of cholesterol is called dietary cholesterol. As our body can produce all of the cholesterol as per its requirement, healthcare experts suggest limiting the intake of dietary cholesterol to maintain a healthy-balanced diet. Any imbalance in the overall cholesterol level can lead to health risks, particularly to the cardiovascular system.
In spite of having a system to get rid of excess cholesterol, our body sometimes becomes overloaded with cholesterol resulting in extra cholesterol circulating in the blood. Thus, malfunction of the cholesterol removal system may cause trouble in the body.
Different types of cholesterol
Our body contains different types of cholesterol. All types of cholesterol are not equally beneficial for our body. It is vital to know about the types of cholesterol and their functions , in order to understand their impact on health. This in turn, also enables us to make informed decisions on our cardiovascular health and general well-being.
- LDL Cholesterol : Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol causes the accumulation of plaque in the arteries. Thus, the elevated level of LDL in the body increases the risk of narrowing down and hardening of arteries or atherosclerosis and other health issues . Therefore, LDL is associated with a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke. This is why LDL cholesterol is often referred to as the ‘bad’ cholesterol.
- HDL Cholesterol: High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream, transporting it to the liver for excretion. Moreover, this type of cholesterol causes a lesser threat to heart health . Therefore, HDL cholesterol is often termed as the ‘good’ cholesterol.
How to manage healthy heart
Healthy heart management depends on maintaining the optimal balance between LDL and HDL cholesterol levels in our body. This can be achieved by incorporating the following healthy habits that promote cardiovascular well-being.
- Regular exercise
- Heart-Healthy Diet
- Healthy Weight maintenance
- Blood Pressure control
- Diabetes Management
- No Smoking
- Limited Alcohol Intake
- Stress Management
- Quality Sleeping
- Adequate water intake
- Limited consumption of Processed Foods
In addition to the above-mentioned measures, it is vital to conduct routine health checkups to evaluate the total health status as well as risk factors for heart disease.
Importance of regular cholesterol tests
Cholesterol tests are quite important in preventive healthcare planning. These tests shed some light on cardiovascular health status and risk factors. This, in turn, makes it possible to take timely actions towards improving heart health.
Regular cholesterol tests are beneficial for heart risk assessment and also for early detection of other associated health issues. Thus, these tests are also helpful in minimizing heart ailments as well as in following preventive as well as healing measures. Additionally, routine cholesterol screenings help in adopting lifestyle changes and support individual health plan implementation.
Choose the right diagnostic lab for cholesterol tests
Cholesterol profile tests reporting is key to follow upon heart health. So, choosing the right diagnostics laboratory for routine cholesterol tests is critical. The regular check-up reports give a detailed report not only on cholesterol levels but also help you and your health care provider formulate informed decisions regarding the overall well being. However, when looking for the most suitable diagnostics lab in your neighborhood, make note of accuracy alongside reputation and accessibility.
While selecting the right laboratory for cholesterol tests, It is advisable to rely on the laboratories that provide accurate and trustworthy results as well as known for their timely and quality services. Moreover, online reviews in the reputed sires, recommendation from healthcare workers and accessibility are also important factors for consideration. Considering the importance of your health, it is always advisable to go for the best pathology labs in the town which offer comprehensive cholesterol screenings along with other critical diagnostic services.
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