Control Your Cholesterol & Triglycerides

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A blood test called a “lipoprotein profile” checks your blood cholesterol (lipid) levels. Too much LDL-cholesterol, other fatty deposits, and calcium can make plaque. This can clog the walls of the arteries and slow down or block blood flow to the heart or brain. Blocked arteries can cause a heart attack or stroke. Get your blood lipids tested, as advised by your doctor. Examples of lipid numbers are listed below.

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*Note: Instead of target blood lipid numbers, your doctor will discuss treatment which may include medication, (such as a statin), based on:

•  Your age, health conditions, and family history of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD).

•  Your LDL-cholesterol.

•  Your 10-year risk for CVD.

Resources

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

www.nhlbi.nih.gov

Ways to Reduce Cholesterol

•  Take medications, if prescribed.

•  Limit foods with saturated fats. Have no trans fats. These are hydrogenated oils in foods, such as stick margarine and some processed foods.

•  Use salad dressings and margarines made with plant sterols and stanols (e.g., Benecol and Take Control brands.)

•  Choose lean beef, pork, lamb, chicken, and turkey. Limit serving sizes.

•  Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables (5 to 7 or more servings/day) and whole-grain products (6 or more servings/day).

•  Have 31 to 38 grams of dietary fiber if you are a man; 21 to 25 grams a day if you are a woman.

•  Eat fish 2 to 3 times a week (especially ones high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon).

•  Use nonfat and low-fat dairy products.

•  If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

•  Be physically active.

Ways to Reduce Triglycerides

•  Lose weight if you are overweight. Follow a low-fat diet. Limit alcohol, sugar, and foods with sugar.

•  Get regular exercise.

•  Take medications, if prescribed.

This website is not meant to substitute for expert medical advice or treatment. Follow your doctor’s or health care provider’s advice if it differs from what is given in this guide.

 

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