I’m sure we all know that high cholesterol equates to bad health, but there really is much more to it than keeping cholesterol out of your diet to ensure a healthy body. Lipids (cholesterol and other fats) are an essential part of our every day life without which we would die. Our bodies actually need cholesterol in order to transport essential fatty acids and produce hormones.

There are two types of cholesterol: LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). The bad cholesterol is LDL. When too much of this type of cholesterol circulates in your blood, it can build up on the walls of your arteries that lead to your heart and brain. Along with other substances it can form plaque – a thick, hard deposit that narrows your arteries. Should a clot form and become stuck in these narrowed arteries, a heart attack or stroke can result. HDL is considered good cholesterol because high levels of this type seem to actually protect against heart attacks. Studies have shown that if you have low HDL counts, you may actually have an increased risk of heart disease. Many doctors think that HDL actually carries cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver where it is released from the body. Other experts believe that HDL removes the excess cholesterol from the plaque and slows the buildup on the artery walls.

There are many reasons why you could have high cholesterol, but it is generally thought to be caused by improper diet and lack of exercise. One of the most important things you can do to help lower your cholesterol with regards to dietary changes is to lower your overall calorie consumption, and your intake of saturated fat. You can also ensure your diet is filled with foods high in fibre, fruits and vegetables. If you don’t exercise on a regular basis, you’ll want to try to get in at least 30 minutes of physical activity at least three times per week.

Sometimes exercise and diet isn’t the problem. LDL is controlled in two places – the liver and the intestines. The liver produces cholesterol in order to make digestive acid and it also removes cholesterol from the blood. The intestines absorb cholesterol from food and bile. If your liver is producing more cholesterol than your intestines can absorb your doctor may have to prescribe a medication to help manage your cholesterol levels.

It’s recommended that you should have your cholesterol checked regularly – even if your doctor hasn’t mentioned anything to you. It’s a quick and easy process that involves fasting for 9-12 hours before your blood work. Here are some quick questions to keep in mind when discussing your cholesterol levels with your doctor:

What is my cholesterol goal, and how long will it take to reach this goal?
How often should I have my cholesterol checked?
What can I do to naturally remedy the situation if my levels are too high?
Will I need cholesterol lowering medication?
What types of food should I be eating to maintain a healthy cholesterol level?
What is my ideal weight for managing my cholesterol level?