When it comes to your overall heart health, your cholesterol levels matter. Your liver produces this fatty substance naturally to support many bodily functions—such as cell development and hormone production. But, these levels can get too high and risk your health. To help shed more light on this vital aspect of wellness, here are some facts about the type of cholesterol you don’t want in your body — LDL.

4 LDL Cholesterol Facts

1. LDL Is Unhealthy

LDL—or low-density lipoproteins—are known to build up in arteries and contribute to heart disease. This obstruction can block blood flow and increase your risk of heart attack and stroke.

But, not all cholesterol is bad. HDL—or high-density lipoproteins—can pick up LDL cholesterol and carry it back to the liver where it can be processed and eliminated from the body.

2. Diet Affects Your LDL Levels

Saturated fats, such as those found in beef and dairy products, can raise LDL levels. The trans fats that are common in highly processed foods can also contribute to bad cholesterol. Unsaturated fats, however, can help increase HDL levels to improve your overall heart health. Some common sources of these healthy fats include avocados, fatty fish, olive oil, and nuts.

3. Other Factors Affect How High Your LDL Levels Should Be

Everyone should have their cholesterol tested as an adult about once every six years. The lower your LDL levels, the better. However, your overall heart health will depend on several factors, including the amount of HDL and triglycerides found in your blood. Individuals with chronic conditions, such as diabetes, may need to aim for lower scores.

4. LDL Levels Can Be Lowered

Finding out you have high cholesterol can be alarming, but you’re not alone. Statistics suggest that as many as 32% of Americans have unhealthy levels of LDL cholesterol. But, you can take steps to improve your cholesterol. Apart from eating a heart-healthy diet, doctor-approved prescription drugs and exercise can help. You should also quit smoking and drinking alcohol.

When cholesterol is complicating your wellness, turn to the caring providers at Lexington Family Physicians. Serving the Lexington, NC, community, these family doctors are equipped to test levels and diagnose potential cardiovascular issues—such as high LDL and heart disease. Depending on your overall risk, these physicians will create a customized plan to improve your heart health, which may include dieting, exercising, and prescription medications. To learn more about their approach to preventive medicine, visit this health care center online. For appointments, call (336) 249-3329.