Cholesterol can be found in every cell of your body. The liver is responsible for developing cholesterol. Cholesterol can also be found in numerous foods such as dairy products as well as meat. Your body will require cholesterol to function properly. However, if you start developing cholesterol in your blood, you will suffer from various physical problems. You will also become vulnerable to coronary heart disease. 

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about cholesterol. 

How Can You Measure Cholesterol?

If you want to measure the overall level of cholesterol in your blood, you need to take a test known as a lipoprotein panel. Before you undergo this test, you need to avoid eating anything for 9 to 12 hours. This specific test is capable of providing different pieces of information such as:

  • LDL: This is the primary source of cholesterol and is responsible for developing a blockage in the arteries. 
  • Total cholesterol: The blood test will measure the total amount of cholesterol in your blood. Apart from the low-density lipoprotein which is known as LDL, it will also measure high-density lipoprotein (LDL) in your blood. 
  • HDL: This specific lipoprotein will help you remove the cholesterol from your arteries. 
  • Non-HDL: You will receive this number by removing the HDL from the overall cholesterol level. 
  • Triglycerides: This is another harmful fat in your bloodstream that can enhance your vulnerability to suffering from heart disease. 

How Often Do You Need to Test Cholesterol?

This is one of the most common questions people ask about cholesterol. The frequency of testing cholesterol levels in your body will depend on multiple factors such as family history, age, and risk factors. Here’s a general recommendation:

People of Age 19 or Below 

The patient needs to undergo the test between the age of 9 and 11. In the case of children, they need to go through the test once every 5 years. If there’s a family history of cholesterol, the test in children might start from age 2. 

People of Age 20 or Older 

Younger adults need to go through the test once every 5 years. Apart from that, men of age between 45 and 65 must go through the test every 1 or 2 years. 

How Can You Lower Cholesterol Level?

This is another common question people ask. Many people who don’t know how to lower cholesterol levels implement wrongful methods that degrade their health condition even more. Here are some great ways you can reduce overall cholesterol level in your body:

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle 

Make sure you create a healthy lifestyle routine. Apart from eating healthy foods, you also need to limit your intake of Trans and saturated fats. Make sure you pay close attention to your diet. 

If you think you’re obese, you need to cut the excess weight as this will prove super beneficial in lowering the cholesterol level of your body. Additionally, consider physical activities that will help you manage stress. As per Healthline, maintaining a healthy lifestyle will help you prevent diseases.

Keep in mind that smoking can also increase your cholesterol level. Therefore, you need to quit smoking. 

Conclusion 

This is everything you need to know about cholesterol levels. If you have any other questions, make sure you comment down below to let us know. 

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