Cholesterol, though essential for the body to function, in excess can lead to many health problems. An unhealthy diet or a dysfunctional liver can cause an increase in cholesterol levels in the body. This leads to the formation of plaques – a thick layer of fat cells under the skin. Cholesterol is also one of the main reasons for obesity. America is said to be on the top of the list of countries with an obese population.
How to keep cholesterol levels in check
Higher cholesterol levels can lead to blockages in the arteries or hardening of the walls of the arteries. This can cause heart attacks, which can be fatal. Prevention is always better than regretting later. Therefore, here are a few ways to keep a check on your cholesterol levels:
- Healthy diet: We all love our burgers and French fries, but we got to put our health ahead of our taste buds. Reduce the intake of fatty food and food containing cholesterol, but do not deprive yourself of cholesterol. You need the good ones to keep away from the bad cholesterol.
- Regular exercise: This is not just to lose weight, but to burn the cholesterol in your body as much as possible to dissolve the plaque and prevent the formation of any blockages in your arteries. Regular exercises and healthy diet should go hand in hand or else there may be no use of it at all.
- Cholesterol levels chart: This helps you to monitor and control your cholesterol levels. Cholesterol levels chart gives you the recommended levels and also helps you understand the risk range of certain types of cholesterols.
- Regular checkups: Liver is the main organ in your body that produces cholesterol. Therefore, periodic checkups and going over the cholesterol levels chart with your doctor can help to know whether your liver is functioning normally.
Keeping a handy cholesterol levels chart and a schedule for your exercise/diet would help you to keep your cholesterol levels in check. Consistency is the key. Stay healthy.