What is borderline high cholesterol. How does it affect heart health. What are the risk factors for borderline high cholesterol. How can borderline high cholesterol be managed through lifestyle changes. When is medication necessary for borderline high cholesterol. What tests are used to diagnose borderline high cholesterol. How often should cholesterol levels be checked.

Understanding Borderline High Cholesterol

Borderline high cholesterol is a condition where total cholesterol levels fall between 200 and 239 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). This range is above normal but not yet in the high category. While not immediately dangerous, borderline high cholesterol can be a warning sign of potential cardiovascular issues if left unaddressed.

To fully understand the implications of borderline high cholesterol, it’s crucial to examine the different components of a lipid panel:

• Total cholesterol: A measurement of all cholesterol types in the blood
• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as “bad” cholesterol
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL): Known as “good” cholesterol
• Triglycerides: Another type of fat in the bloodstream

Doctors consider these individual components, along with other risk factors, when assessing a patient’s overall cardiovascular health.

The Importance of Cholesterol Testing

Regular cholesterol testing is essential for maintaining good heart health. Why is cholesterol testing so important? Cholesterol itself is a waxy, fat-like substance produced by the liver and obtained from certain foods. While necessary for various bodily functions, excessive cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis narrows arteries, impeding blood flow and potentially leading to serious cardiovascular events. Unfortunately, high cholesterol often presents no symptoms until significant damage has occurred. This is why routine blood tests are crucial for early detection and prevention of heart disease.

How Often Should Cholesterol Levels Be Checked?

For most adults, cholesterol screening is recommended every 5 years. However, individuals with risk factors such as family history of heart disease, obesity, or diabetes may require more frequent testing. Your healthcare provider can advise on the appropriate testing schedule based on your personal health profile.

Interpreting Cholesterol Test Results

Understanding cholesterol test results is key to managing cardiovascular health. Here’s a breakdown of the numbers:

1. Total Cholesterol:
   • Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL
   • Borderline high: 200-239 mg/dL
   • High risk: 240 mg/dL and above
2. LDL Cholesterol:
   • 190 mg/dL and above: High risk, intensive treatment recommended
   • Below 189 mg/dL: Treatment strategies aim to lower LDL by 30% to 50%, depending on other risk factors
3. HDL Cholesterol:
   • High risk: Less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women
   • Higher levels are generally better

It’s important to note that these numbers are part of a larger equation used to assess overall cardiovascular risk. Your doctor will consider these results alongside other factors to determine the best course of action.

Risk Factors for Borderline High Cholesterol

Several factors can contribute to borderline high cholesterol levels. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take proactive steps to manage their cholesterol:

• Diet high in saturated and trans fats
• Lack of physical activity
• Obesity or being overweight
• Smoking
• Age (risk increases as you get older)
• Genetics and family history
• Certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypothyroidism)

Can borderline high cholesterol be influenced by factors beyond our control? While some risk factors like age and genetics are unchangeable, many others can be modified through lifestyle changes. This is why a comprehensive approach to cholesterol management is often recommended.

Lifestyle Modifications for Managing Borderline High Cholesterol

For many individuals with borderline high cholesterol, lifestyle changes can be effective in bringing levels back to a healthy range. Here are some key strategies:

Dietary Changes

Making changes in the kitchen is often the first line of defense against high cholesterol. What dietary modifications can help lower cholesterol levels? Consider the following:

• Reduce intake of saturated and trans fats
• Increase consumption of fiber-rich foods
• Include more omega-3 fatty acids in your diet
• Limit dietary cholesterol
• Choose lean proteins

Reading food labels is crucial for making informed dietary choices. Pay attention to the amount of saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol in packaged foods.

Regular Physical Activity

Exercise plays a vital role in managing cholesterol levels. How does physical activity impact cholesterol? Regular exercise can help:

• Increase HDL (good) cholesterol
• Lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Improve overall cardiovascular health

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.

Weight Management

Losing excess weight can significantly impact cholesterol levels. Even a modest weight loss of 5-10% of body weight can lead to improvements in lipid profiles. Focus on a combination of healthy eating and regular physical activity for sustainable weight management.

Smoking Cessation

Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful steps you can take for your overall health, including cholesterol management. Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol and increases the risk of heart disease. Seek support from healthcare providers or smoking cessation programs to quit successfully.

Medical Interventions for Borderline High Cholesterol

While lifestyle changes are often the first approach to managing borderline high cholesterol, some individuals may require medication. When is medication necessary for borderline high cholesterol? Your doctor may recommend medication if:

• Lifestyle changes alone are not sufficient to lower cholesterol levels
• You have other significant risk factors for heart disease
• You have a family history of early heart disease
• You have already experienced a cardiovascular event

Statins are the most commonly prescribed medications for cholesterol management. They work by blocking a substance your body needs to make cholesterol. Other medications may include bile acid sequestrants, cholesterol absorption inhibitors, and PCSK9 inhibitors.

Monitoring and Follow-up for Borderline High Cholesterol

Regular monitoring is essential for effective cholesterol management. How often should cholesterol levels be rechecked after initiating treatment? Your healthcare provider will typically recommend follow-up testing within 3 to 6 months after starting a new treatment plan. This allows for assessment of treatment efficacy and necessary adjustments.

In addition to cholesterol testing, your doctor may recommend other assessments to evaluate overall cardiovascular health:

• Coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan: This imaging test can reveal the presence of plaque buildup in heart arteries.
• Blood pressure measurements
• Blood sugar tests to check for diabetes
• Evaluation of other risk factors such as family history and lifestyle habits

Regular check-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are crucial for ongoing management of borderline high cholesterol and overall heart health.

The Role of Genetics in Cholesterol Levels

While lifestyle factors play a significant role in cholesterol levels, genetics also contribute to an individual’s lipid profile. How do genes influence cholesterol levels? Several genetic factors can affect cholesterol metabolism:

• Familial hypercholesterolemia: A genetic disorder that causes very high LDL cholesterol levels from birth
• Polygenic hypercholesterolemia: A condition where multiple genes contribute to elevated cholesterol levels
• Genetic variations affecting HDL production or function

Understanding the genetic component of cholesterol can help healthcare providers tailor treatment plans more effectively. For individuals with a strong genetic predisposition to high cholesterol, more aggressive management strategies may be necessary, even if lifestyle factors are optimal.

Genetic Testing for Cholesterol Disorders

In some cases, genetic testing may be recommended to identify specific genetic mutations associated with cholesterol disorders. This can be particularly useful for:

• Individuals with very high cholesterol levels despite a healthy lifestyle
• Those with a family history of early heart disease
• Patients who don’t respond as expected to standard cholesterol-lowering treatments

Genetic testing results can inform treatment decisions and help identify family members who may also be at risk.

The Impact of Age and Gender on Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol levels naturally change as we age, and there are notable differences between men and women. How do age and gender affect cholesterol? Consider these factors:

• Age: Cholesterol levels tend to rise with age for both men and women
• Gender:
  • Men typically have higher total cholesterol levels than women until around age 50
  • After menopause, women’s LDL cholesterol levels often increase
  • HDL cholesterol tends to be higher in women than in men throughout life

These natural variations highlight the importance of regular cholesterol screening throughout adulthood and tailored management strategies based on individual risk profiles.

The Connection Between Cholesterol and Other Health Conditions

Cholesterol levels don’t exist in isolation; they are often intertwined with other health conditions. How do other health issues impact cholesterol management? Several conditions can affect or be affected by cholesterol levels:

• Diabetes: Can lower HDL and increase LDL and triglycerides
• Hypothyroidism: May elevate LDL cholesterol
• Obesity: Often associated with higher LDL and lower HDL levels
• Metabolic syndrome: A cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat, and abnormal cholesterol levels

Managing these underlying conditions is often crucial for effective cholesterol control. A comprehensive approach that addresses all aspects of health is typically most effective for reducing cardiovascular risk.

Emerging Research and Future Directions in Cholesterol Management

The field of cholesterol management is continually evolving as new research emerges. What are some promising areas of study in cholesterol research? Here are a few exciting directions:

• PCSK9 inhibitors: A newer class of drugs that can dramatically lower LDL cholesterol
• Personalized medicine: Tailoring cholesterol treatment based on genetic profiles
• Gut microbiome research: Investigating the role of intestinal bacteria in cholesterol metabolism
• Novel HDL-raising therapies: Exploring new ways to increase “good” cholesterol levels
• Advanced imaging techniques: Developing more precise methods for assessing cardiovascular risk

These areas of research hold promise for more effective and personalized approaches to managing cholesterol and reducing heart disease risk in the future.

The Role of Inflammation in Cholesterol and Heart Disease

Recent research has highlighted the importance of inflammation in the development of heart disease. How does inflammation relate to cholesterol? Chronic inflammation can:

• Contribute to the formation of plaque in arteries
• Make existing plaque more unstable and prone to rupture
• Affect the function of HDL cholesterol

This understanding has led to increased interest in anti-inflammatory approaches to heart disease prevention and treatment, complementing traditional cholesterol management strategies.

Holistic Approaches to Cardiovascular Health

While managing cholesterol is crucial, it’s important to consider overall cardiovascular health. What other factors contribute to heart health beyond cholesterol? A holistic approach to heart health includes:

• Stress management: Chronic stress can negatively impact heart health
• Adequate sleep: Poor sleep has been linked to increased cardiovascular risk
• Social connections: Strong social ties have been associated with better heart health
• Mental health: Conditions like depression and anxiety can affect heart health
• Environmental factors: Air pollution and other environmental toxins can impact cardiovascular risk

Addressing these factors alongside cholesterol management can provide a more comprehensive approach to reducing heart disease risk.

The Mediterranean Diet and Heart Health

The Mediterranean diet has gained significant attention for its potential cardiovascular benefits. How does the Mediterranean diet impact cholesterol and heart health? This dietary pattern, characterized by high consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, olive oil, and fish, has been associated with:

• Improved lipid profiles, including lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides
• Increased HDL cholesterol levels
• Reduced inflammation
• Lower risk of heart disease and stroke

Incorporating elements of the Mediterranean diet can be an effective strategy for managing cholesterol levels and promoting overall heart health.

The Psychological Aspects of Cholesterol Management

Managing cholesterol levels often requires long-term lifestyle changes, which can be psychologically challenging. How can individuals stay motivated in their cholesterol management journey? Consider these strategies:

• Set realistic, achievable goals
• Celebrate small victories along the way
• Seek support from family, friends, or support groups
• Work with a healthcare provider or nutritionist to develop a personalized plan
• Use technology, such as health apps, to track progress
• Focus on the positive health benefits beyond just cholesterol numbers

Addressing the psychological aspects of cholesterol management can improve adherence to treatment plans and lead to better long-term outcomes.

Overcoming Barriers to Cholesterol Management

Many individuals face challenges in managing their cholesterol effectively. What are common barriers to cholesterol management, and how can they be overcome?

• Cost of medications: Explore generic options or patient assistance programs
• Side effects of statins: Discuss alternative medications or dosing schedules with your doctor
• Difficulty changing dietary habits: Start with small, gradual changes and seek guidance from a nutritionist
• Lack of time for exercise: Incorporate physical activity into daily routines, such as taking stairs or walking during lunch breaks
• Confusion about conflicting health information: Rely on reputable sources and discuss concerns with your healthcare provider

Identifying and addressing these barriers can significantly improve the success of cholesterol management efforts.

What It Is and What to Do About It

Written by Jodi Helmer

• Cholesterol Tests
• Make Changes in the Kitchen
• Read Food Labels
• Get Moving
• Lose Extra Weight
• Quit Smoking
• Check to See What’s Working
• More

Has your doctor told you that you have “borderline” high cholesterol? That means your cholesterol level is above normal but not quite in the “high” range.

You have borderline high cholesterol if your total cholesterol is between 200 and 239 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

Your doctor will also consider other things, like how much of your total cholesterol is LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and how much of it is HDL (“good”) cholesterol.

Making simple changes in your lifestyle is often enough to bring borderline cholesterol levels down to the normal range. Some people may also need to take medicine for it. And keep in mind that other things, like diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking, also affect your heart health; it’s not just about cholesterol.

If you have borderline cholesterol, your doctor will decide whether you need treatment by looking at these and other risk factors for heart disease. They may ask you to get an imaging test of your heart called a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan. This test reveals whether dangerous plaque has built up in your heart’s arteries.

You won’t know you have borderline cholesterol unless you get a cholesterol blood test. You should do that every 5 years.

The average American has a total cholesterol level of 200, which is in the borderline range.

You can turn it around before you get high cholesterol. Start with these steps.

Why Do I Need a Cholesterol Test?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance. Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. But you take in more cholesterol from certain foods, such as those from animals. If you have too much cholesterol in your body, it can build up in the walls of your arteries (as “plaque”) and eventually harden. This process, called atherosclerosis, actually narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to travel through them. 

Unfortunately, high cholesterol doesn’t cause symptoms. In later stages of atherosclerosis, though, you may have angina – severe chest pain from lack of blood flow to the heart. If an artery gets totally blocked, a heart attack results. A routine blood cholesterol test is a far better way of finding out what your cholesterol level is.

What Does a Cholesterol Test Measure?

In addition to measuring the total cholesterol in your blood, the standard cholesterol test (called a “lipid panel”) measures three specific kinds of fat:

Low-density lipoproteins (LDL). This is the “bad cholesterol,” the main cause of plaque buildup, which increases your risk of heart disease. In general, the lower the number, the better. But LDL cholesterol is only one part of a larger equation that measures a person’s overall risk of having a heart attack or stroke.  

For years, guidelines focused on specific target numbers for people to achieve to lower their risk. The most recent guidelines focus on a person’s overall risk and, based on that risk, recommend a certain percentage of LDL reduction as one part of a way to prevent serious heart and blood vessel problems.

High-density lipoproteins (HDL). This is the “good cholesterol.” It transports bad cholesterol from the blood to the liver, where it is excreted by the body. Your HDL is another part of the equation that identifies the risk of a cardiovascular event. In general, the higher the number the better, although, as with LDL, the emphasis has shifted from specific target numbers to ways to reduce the overall risk.

Triglycerides. Another type of fat in the bloodstream, triglycerides are also linked to heart disease. They are stored in fat cells throughout the body.

What Do Cholesterol Test Numbers Mean?

If you have a lipoprotein profile, it’s important to look at all the numbers from the cholesterol test, not just the total cholesterol number. That’s because LDL and HDL levels are two top signs of potential heart disease. Use the information below to interpret your results (with the help of your doctor, of course). This will help you get a better idea about your risk for heart disease.

Total blood cholesterol level:

• High risk: 240 mg/dL and above
• Borderline high risk: 200-239 mg/dL
• Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL

LDL cholesterol levels:

190 mg/dL and above represents a high risk for heart disease and is a strong sign that you can benefit from intensive treatment, including lifestyle changes, diet, and statin therapy for reducing that risk.

For LDL levels that are equal to or less than 189 mg/dL, the guidelines recommend strategies for lowering LDL by 30% to 50%, depending on what other risk factors you have that can affect the health of your heart and blood vessels.

HDL cholesterol:

• High risk: Less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women

Triglycerides:

• Very high risk: 500 mg/dL and above
• High risk: 200-499 mg/dL
• Borderline high risk: 150-199 mg/dL
• Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL

Use your diet to help lower your LDL cholesterol and raise your HDL cholesterol.

For the biggest impact, choose foods that are low in saturated fats and trans fats, and high in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. Whole grains, beans, apples, pears, oatmeal, salmon, walnuts, and olive oil are excellent heart-healthy choices.

Here are some more diet tips to help you lower your cholesterol:

Make meat lean. Cut back on red meats that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol, and choose only lean meats with very little visible fat. Examples of lean beef include London broil, eye of round, and filet mignon. Avoid processed meats like bacon and sausage, which are linked to higher odds of heart disease and diabetes.

Remove skin from poultry. That’s where much of the fat is.

Eat more seafood. It usually has less fat than other meat. The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fatty fish (like salmon, tuna, or mackerel) each week for heart health. Those fish are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for you.

Limit saturated fat. These are found in whole-fat dairy products, mayonnaise, and hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils or fats (such as stick margarine). These products may also contain trans fats, which can raise your cholesterol level.

Go liquid. For cooking, replace saturated fats that are solid at room temperature (such as butter and shortening) with liquid monounsaturated fats such as olive, canola, and flaxseed oils. There’s evidence that eating moderate amounts of monounsaturated fat – found in such foods as nuts, seeds, and avocados – may lower LDL cholesterol.

Add fiber with plant foods. Good sources include grapefruit, apples, beans and other legumes, barley, carrots, cabbage, and oatmeal.

Get two daily servings of plant sterol-rich foods. These foods, such as nuts, can help lower cholesterol. Plant sterols are also added to some soft margarines, granola bars, yogurts, and orange juice.

You need to know how much saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol are in your favorite foods. That can help you make better choices.

Too much saturated fat can drive up your cholesterol level. It’s found mostly in animal products. Cholesterol also is found in animal products. Your doctor or a dietitian can let you know what your daily limit should be.

Artificial trans fats can raise your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. They’re in packaged foods, like some crackers, cookies, pastries, and microwave popcorn.

Check the nutrition label. And because products marked “0 grams” of trans fats per serving can have up to a gram of trans fats, check the ingredients label, too. Anything marked “partially hydrogenated” is trans fat.

Exercise helps you get your cholesterol down from the borderline range.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, per day (150 minutes each week). You can also do a more intense workout for 75 minutes a week.

Taking a walk, riding your bike, playing a team sport, or taking a group fitness class will increase your heart rate while raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Push yourself, if you can, but keep in mind that moderate exercise is better than none at all.

You can have borderline high cholesterol and be at a healthy weight. But if you’re overweight, losing those extra pounds can help bring your cholesterol level back down.

Losing as little as 5% of your body weight can lower your cholesterol levels. One study found that adults who took part in a 12-week exercise program lowered their LDL by 18 points, and their total cholesterol dropped 26 points.

With a combination of weight loss and a healthy diet, it’s possible to lower LDL levels up to 30% – results that are similar to taking cholesterol-lowering drugs.

If you’re not sure whether your weight is in a healthy place, ask your doctor to check your body mass index (BMI). A normal BMI is 18 to 25. If your BMI is 25 or higher, ask your doctor for advice on the best types of physical activity for you.

If you smoke, kicking the habit can help raise your HDL (“good”) cholesterol up to 10%.

Have you tried to quit smoking before? For many people, it takes a couple of tries. Keep trying until it sticks. It’s worth it, for your whole body’s health.

During regular screening appointments, your doctor will check your cholesterol levels to see if the changes you’ve made have gotten you to your cholesterol goal.

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to lower borderline high cholesterol, your doctor may talk to you about medication.

Top Picks

What It Is and What to Do About It

Written by Jodi Helmer

• Cholesterol Tests
• Make Changes in the Kitchen
• Read Food Labels
• Get Moving
• Lose Extra Weight
• Quit Smoking
• Check to See What’s Working
• More

Has your doctor told you that you have “borderline” high cholesterol? That means your cholesterol level is above normal but not quite in the “high” range.

You have borderline high cholesterol if your total cholesterol is between 200 and 239 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

Your doctor will also consider other things, like how much of your total cholesterol is LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and how much of it is HDL (“good”) cholesterol.

Making simple changes in your lifestyle is often enough to bring borderline cholesterol levels down to the normal range. Some people may also need to take medicine for it. And keep in mind that other things, like diabetes, high blood pressure, and smoking, also affect your heart health; it’s not just about cholesterol.

If you have borderline cholesterol, your doctor will decide whether you need treatment by looking at these and other risk factors for heart disease. They may ask you to get an imaging test of your heart called a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan. This test reveals whether dangerous plaque has built up in your heart’s arteries.

You won’t know you have borderline cholesterol unless you get a cholesterol blood test. You should do that every 5 years.

The average American has a total cholesterol level of 200, which is in the borderline range.

You can turn it around before you get high cholesterol. Start with these steps.

Why Do I Need a Cholesterol Test?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance. Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. But you take in more cholesterol from certain foods, such as those from animals. If you have too much cholesterol in your body, it can build up in the walls of your arteries (as “plaque”) and eventually harden. This process, called atherosclerosis, actually narrows the arteries, making it harder for blood to travel through them. 

Unfortunately, high cholesterol doesn’t cause symptoms. In later stages of atherosclerosis, though, you may have angina – severe chest pain from lack of blood flow to the heart. If an artery gets totally blocked, a heart attack results. A routine blood cholesterol test is a far better way of finding out what your cholesterol level is.

What Does a Cholesterol Test Measure?

In addition to measuring the total cholesterol in your blood, the standard cholesterol test (called a “lipid panel”) measures three specific kinds of fat:

Low-density lipoproteins (LDL). This is the “bad cholesterol,” the main cause of plaque buildup, which increases your risk of heart disease. In general, the lower the number, the better. But LDL cholesterol is only one part of a larger equation that measures a person’s overall risk of having a heart attack or stroke. 

For years, guidelines focused on specific target numbers for people to achieve to lower their risk. The most recent guidelines focus on a person’s overall risk and, based on that risk, recommend a certain percentage of LDL reduction as one part of a way to prevent serious heart and blood vessel problems.

High-density lipoproteins (HDL). This is the “good cholesterol.” It transports bad cholesterol from the blood to the liver, where it is excreted by the body. Your HDL is another part of the equation that identifies the risk of a cardiovascular event. In general, the higher the number the better, although, as with LDL, the emphasis has shifted from specific target numbers to ways to reduce the overall risk.

Triglycerides. Another type of fat in the bloodstream, triglycerides are also linked to heart disease. They are stored in fat cells throughout the body.

What Do Cholesterol Test Numbers Mean?

If you have a lipoprotein profile, it’s important to look at all the numbers from the cholesterol test, not just the total cholesterol number. That’s because LDL and HDL levels are two top signs of potential heart disease. Use the information below to interpret your results (with the help of your doctor, of course). This will help you get a better idea about your risk for heart disease.

Total blood cholesterol level:

• High risk: 240 mg/dL and above
• Borderline high risk: 200-239 mg/dL
• Desirable: Less than 200 mg/dL

LDL cholesterol levels:

190 mg/dL and above represents a high risk for heart disease and is a strong sign that you can benefit from intensive treatment, including lifestyle changes, diet, and statin therapy for reducing that risk.

For LDL levels that are equal to or less than 189 mg/dL, the guidelines recommend strategies for lowering LDL by 30% to 50%, depending on what other risk factors you have that can affect the health of your heart and blood vessels.

HDL cholesterol:

• High risk: Less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women

Triglycerides:

• Very high risk: 500 mg/dL and above
• High risk: 200-499 mg/dL
• Borderline high risk: 150-199 mg/dL
• Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL

Use your diet to help lower your LDL cholesterol and raise your HDL cholesterol.

For the biggest impact, choose foods that are low in saturated fats and trans fats, and high in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. Whole grains, beans, apples, pears, oatmeal, salmon, walnuts, and olive oil are excellent heart-healthy choices.

Here are some more diet tips to help you lower your cholesterol:

Make meat lean. Cut back on red meats that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol, and choose only lean meats with very little visible fat. Examples of lean beef include London broil, eye of round, and filet mignon. Avoid processed meats like bacon and sausage, which are linked to higher odds of heart disease and diabetes.

Remove skin from poultry. That’s where much of the fat is.

Eat more seafood. It usually has less fat than other meat. The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of fatty fish (like salmon, tuna, or mackerel) each week for heart health. Those fish are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for you.

Limit saturated fat. These are found in whole-fat dairy products, mayonnaise, and hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils or fats (such as stick margarine). These products may also contain trans fats, which can raise your cholesterol level.

Go liquid. For cooking, replace saturated fats that are solid at room temperature (such as butter and shortening) with liquid monounsaturated fats such as olive, canola, and flaxseed oils. There’s evidence that eating moderate amounts of monounsaturated fat – found in such foods as nuts, seeds, and avocados – may lower LDL cholesterol.

Add fiber with plant foods. Good sources include grapefruit, apples, beans and other legumes, barley, carrots, cabbage, and oatmeal.

Get two daily servings of plant sterol-rich foods. These foods, such as nuts, can help lower cholesterol. Plant sterols are also added to some soft margarines, granola bars, yogurts, and orange juice.

You need to know how much saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol are in your favorite foods. That can help you make better choices.

Too much saturated fat can drive up your cholesterol level. It’s found mostly in animal products. Cholesterol also is found in animal products. Your doctor or a dietitian can let you know what your daily limit should be.

Artificial trans fats can raise your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. They’re in packaged foods, like some crackers, cookies, pastries, and microwave popcorn.

Check the nutrition label. And because products marked “0 grams” of trans fats per serving can have up to a gram of trans fats, check the ingredients label, too. Anything marked “partially hydrogenated” is trans fat.

Exercise helps you get your cholesterol down from the borderline range.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking, per day (150 minutes each week). You can also do a more intense workout for 75 minutes a week.

Taking a walk, riding your bike, playing a team sport, or taking a group fitness class will increase your heart rate while raising HDL (“good”) cholesterol. Push yourself, if you can, but keep in mind that moderate exercise is better than none at all.

You can have borderline high cholesterol and be at a healthy weight. But if you’re overweight, losing those extra pounds can help bring your cholesterol level back down.

Losing as little as 5% of your body weight can lower your cholesterol levels. One study found that adults who took part in a 12-week exercise program lowered their LDL by 18 points, and their total cholesterol dropped 26 points.

With a combination of weight loss and a healthy diet, it’s possible to lower LDL levels up to 30% – results that are similar to taking cholesterol-lowering drugs.

If you’re not sure whether your weight is in a healthy place, ask your doctor to check your body mass index (BMI). A normal BMI is 18 to 25. If your BMI is 25 or higher, ask your doctor for advice on the best types of physical activity for you.

If you smoke, kicking the habit can help raise your HDL (“good”) cholesterol up to 10%.

Have you tried to quit smoking before? For many people, it takes a couple of tries. Keep trying until it sticks. It’s worth it, for your whole body’s health.

During regular screening appointments, your doctor will check your cholesterol levels to see if the changes you’ve made have gotten you to your cholesterol goal.

If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to lower borderline high cholesterol, your doctor may talk to you about medication.

Top Picks

What level of cholesterol is considered high? | Eternal questions | Question-Answer

09.01.2017 17:28

Elena Slobodyan

Estimated reading time: 12 minutes

948725

Category:
Diseases and treatment

The level of cholesterol in the blood is an important indicator of health. Cholesterol is present in every organ, in every cell membrane and in muscle. Without this substance, the construction of the skeleton, the regeneration of damaged tissues, the metabolism and the production of the most important sex hormones, such as testosterone, estrogen and cortisol, are impossible.

A person receives only 20% of cholesterol from food, in particular, from animal fats, meat, some types of proteins and other products, and the remaining 80% is produced in the human liver.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is usually divided into “bad” and “good”. Both forms are found in the blood plasma as part of lipoproteins: complex complex compounds consisting of fats and proteins.

“Good” cholesterol is the code name for high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The main function of “good” cholesterol is the continuous transfer of excess cholesterol from the blood to the liver for processing and further excretion from the body. Therefore, such cholesterol actively protects the body from serious diseases and cleanses the inner walls of blood vessels.

In contrast, “bad” cholesterol settles inside the walls of the arteries, forming plaques. It combines with apoproteins (special types of protein) and forms fat-protein complexes (LDL). Dangerous for health is the increase in the level of this particular cholesterol.

Cholesterol norms for women and men

The content of cholesterol in human blood can vary from 3.6 mmol/l to 7.8 mmol/l. The optimal level of cholesterol is considered:

Norms of blood cholesterol in men by age

Norms of blood cholesterol in women by age

What happens when you have high cholesterol?

High cholesterol can be caused by:

How can blood cholesterol levels be controlled?

Only physical activity can increase the level of “good” cholesterol: medium and moderate physical activity on the body can increase its production. A low-carbohydrate diet can also help lower bad cholesterol levels. You should exclude the use of margarine, mayonnaise, chips, pastries, fried foods and convenience foods.

How can I check my cholesterol level?

To find out your cholesterol level, you should do a biochemical blood test. The analysis can be taken in almost any clinic, for this they take approximately 5 milliliters of blood from the cubital vein. It is important to know that before taking a cholesterol test, you should not eat anything for 12 hours, limit yourself to physical activity.

See also:

• …What are the standards for blood sugar and cholesterol levels? →
• What pressure is considered normal, low and high? →
• …What is the difference between good and bad cholesterol? →

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Lactoflorene Cholesterol | Cholesterol under control

Lactoflorene Cholesterol | Cholesterol under control | Lactoflorene

RISK FACTORS FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES

malnutrition

excessive alcohol consumption

smoking

physical inertia

overweight and obesity

high cholesterol

age

hypertension

DO YOU KNOW YOUR CHOLESTEROL LEVEL?

5.2
mmol/L

6. 2
mmol/L

NORMAL
BORDER
HIGH

CHOLESTEROL UNDER CONTROL WITH

CHOLESTEROL

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lactose free

HELP TO MAINTAIN
NORMAL CHOLESTEROL LEVEL

• prevention and maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels
• control of cholesterol levels in people with moderate hypercholesterolemia
• reduced risk of cardiovascular disease
• prevention and maintenance of the normal functioning of the cardiovascular system

made in italy

for whom?

FOR THOSE WHO ARE AT RISK FOR
UNHEALTHY LIFESTYLE, AGE AND OVERWEIGHT.

INNOVATIVE FORMULA

NATURAL STATIN Inhibitor of the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase

fermented red rice

BIFIDOBACTERIUM LONGUM BB536® Restrict the absorption of cholesterol derivatives secreted through bile

bifidobacteria

POWERFUL ANTIOXIDANT Helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease

coenzyme Q10

VITAMIN B3 (nicotinamide) Helps increase HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), lower LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides

vitamin PP

action

Lactoflorene® CHOLESTEROL helps to improve the lipid profile,
well tolerated by patients with moderate hypercholesterolemia

• HELPS LOWER LDL – CHOLESTEROL
  -26%
• HELPS TO REDUCE LEVEL
  APOLYPOPROTEIN B
  -20%
• HELPS TO LOWER TOTAL CHOLESTEROL
  -17%

* Macchi C. Efficacy and safety of a nutraceutical with probiotic and red yeast rice extract in patients with moderate hypercholesterolemia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Atherosclerosis August 2017 Volume 263, Page e109(McKee Ch. Efficacy and safety of dietary supplements with probiotics and red enzyme rice extract in patients with moderate hypercholesterolemia)

INNOVATIVE PACKAGING

Probiotics are very sensitive to moisture and interaction with other substances.

DUOCAM® system

• 
  allows contained components not to interact with each other until the product is used
• 
  ensures optimal preservation of the properties of probiotics

HOW TO USE

OPEN

DUOCAM® bag

DISSOLVE

content in a small amount of water at room temperature

DRINK

resulting solution

• SIMPLE
• convenient
• delicious

faq

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the cell membranes of all animal organisms. It performs a number of important functions in the human body. The substance is part of the cell membranes, protecting every particle of our body from outside influences. That is why with age, the concentration of cholesterol in the body increases – the cells become more vulnerable, and they need additional protection. Cholesterol plays an important role in the production of vitamin D, steroid hormones, estrogens, testosterone, and is also involved in the processes of the nervous and immune systems. Most of the cholesterol (80%) is produced by the liver, intestines and kidneys, and the remaining 20% ​​enter the body with food.

What level of cholesterol is considered high?

The content of total cholesterol below 5 mmol / l is considered optimal (“desirable”).

Level of total cholesterol 5.1-5.9 mmol/l is regarded as moderately elevated.

A total cholesterol level above 6 mmol/l is considered high.

What are high and low density lipoproteins?

High-density lipoproteins (HDL), “good cholesterol”, slow down the growth of plaques and lead to inhibition of atherosclerosis processes, their high level does not harm health, but only helps to strengthen it.

“Bad cholesterol” – low-density lipoproteins (LDL) in high concentration lead to the deposition of cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels, as a result, the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases increases significantly.

What is hypercholesterolemia?

A pathological condition associated with a persistent increase in the level of cholesterol in the blood. Hypercholesterolemia is not considered a disease, but is only a factor contributing to the occurrence of atherosclerosis.

What is dyslipidemia?

Dyslipidemia is a lipid metabolism disorder characterized by elevated levels of cholesterol, triglycerides and atherogenic lipoproteins in the blood and/or a decrease in the content of anti-atherogenic high-density lipoproteins. Lipid metabolism disorders (first of all, high blood levels of cholesterol, triglycerides and atherogenic lipoproteins) are the most important risk factor for atherosclerosis.

What is atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis is a chronic disease characterized by the appearance of foci of lipid infiltration (plaques) in the walls of the arteries. Atherosclerosis is the main factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases.

Diseases associated with atherosclerosis include:

• myocardial infarction
• ischemic heart disease
• stroke
• atherosclerosis of the arteries of the lower extremities
• circulatory disorders of the abdominal organs

What strains of bifidobacteria are included in Lactoflorene®Cholesterol?

Bifidobacteria Bifidobacterium longum BB536® in the amount of 1×109 CFU.*

Have the status of GRAS (Generally Regarded as Safe), which means international recognition of the safety of bifidobacterium Bifidobacterium lactis HN019TM, including for children from the first days of life, as well as the absence of restrictions on use in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

*COE is a colony forming unit (an indicator of the number of viable microorganisms).

other products Lactoflorene ^®

springs

1. Efficacy and safety of a nutraceutical with probiotic and red yeast rice extract in patients with moderate hypercholesterolemia: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study Chiara Macchi, Margherita Botta, Raffaella Bosisio, Chiara Pavanello,
Chiara Maria Toldo, Giuliana Mombelli, Laura Calabresi, Massimiliano Ruscica, Paolo Magni Abstract ID 78448. 2. Comparative efficacy of statins in the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease S.V. Shalaev, Z.M. Safiullina, L.V.
Kremneva, O.V. Abaturova. 3. Khokhlov A.A., Sychev D.A. Estimation of the frequency of potentially significant drug interactions in patients taking statins. Clinical pharmacology and therapy. 2015. V. 24. No. 5. S.