September is National Cholesterol Education Month. It serves as an important time to focus on heart health, getting your blood cholesterol checked, and taking proactive steps to manage cholesterol levels.
National Cholesterol Education Month seeks to inform the public about the dangers of high cholesterol and its connection with the leading cause of death around the globe, heart disease.
High cholesterol is one of the most common and commonly misunderstood health risks in America. It can be caused by an unhealthy diet and exacerbated by smoking and a lack of exercise. Since it is symptomless, it can be hard to diagnose. It is a serious condition that affects nearly 102 million Americans over the age of 20 years old.
Fortunately, managing cholesterol levels can be achieved through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication. Here are some effective strategies to help lower cholesterol:
- Adopting a heart-healthy diet that focuses on eating foods rich in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Incorporate healthy fats from sources such as avocados, nuts, and olive oil, while reducing intake of saturated and trans fats found in processed and fried foods.
- Increasing physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling, can help raise HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol. Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week is recommended.
- Maintaining a healthy weight by losing excess weight through a combination of healthy eating and exercising regularly can improve cholesterol levels and overall heart health.
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol use through smoking cessation and moderate alcohol consumption can improve HDL cholesterol levels and reduce overall cardiovascular risk.
- Monitoring your cholesterol levels by getting regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help track cholesterol levels and assess risk factors. This is particularly important for younger adults who may not exhibit symptoms, but could still be at risk.
National Cholesterol Education Month is an important time to reflect on the state of our heart health and take proactive steps to manage our cholesterol levels.
If you are concerned about your heart health and would like to get your blood cholesterol checked, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.