.jpg){kind=logo}
Be informed to live your healthiest life!
According to the CDC, “high cholesterol affects more than 102 million American Adults (20 years or older).” High cholesterol can lead to many different health risks, and ultimately, heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in men and women in the United States, about half a million people die from heart disease each year. With September being National Cholesterol Education Month, we want you to be informed of the possible risks that are associated with high cholesterol.
What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that your body produces because it is necessary for an assortment of body functions which includes building cells. Cholesterol comes from two different places, your liver, and foods derived from animals. Due to the nature of those foods being high in saturated and trans fat your liver produces more cholesterol than necessary which leads to build-up on the walls of your blood vessels. Over time this build-up can become detrimental to the flow of blood through your body and can cause heart attacks and strokes.
How many individuals are affected by high cholesterol?
As stated previously, there are more than 102 million Americans that are affected by high cholesterol. “One in every two males and one in every three females age 40 years and over will develop high cholesterol (U.S Department of Health and Human Services).” There are many different ways that your cholesterol can be affected however, you cannot control the following factors: age, gender, and genes. Older individuals will be at a higher risk for heart disease and strokes. While some individuals have higher cholesterol levels because it runs in their families. Although these factors are out of your control, there are things that you can control!
There are a couple of ways that you can lower your risk for high cholesterol. One way you can lower it, is by creating a healthy diet plan that implements whole fruits and vegetables. The second way is by increasing your daily physical activity such as going for a daily 15-20 minute walk. The third way is by cutting out excessive drinking and smoking. Making these lifestyle changes will allow you to live a longer, healthier life!
How do you know if you have high cholesterol/How often should you have your cholesterol checked?
Many people are unaware that they have high cholesterol because they do not experience any underlining symptoms. Keeping track of your cholesterol is important at every age and can make all the difference! It is important that if you are 20 years or older, that you are getting your cholesterol checked at least once every 4-6 years. If you are not sure where to start, you can give our team a call at 412-344-4100 or fill out our online form.
Overall, living a heart-healthy lifestyle will make all the difference in your life, even if you aren’t necessarily dealing with high cholesterol. Implementing small changes in your life will prevent significant medical complications in the future. Now is the time to start taking control of your health.
Helpful Resources:
Citations:
About Advanced Home Health
Advanced Home Health is a local, family-owned, home health and home care provider located in Western PA, servicing Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Lawrence
and Washington Counties.
To learn more visit: www.advancedhomehealth.com or call 412-344-4100.