I recently completed my annual wellness checkup, including the essential step of having my blood drawn. While I tend to procrastinate on this particular task, I am well aware of its vital importance. Let me share some valuable insights on the significance of knowing your numbers:
Cholesterol
• A waxy substance found in the fats (lipids) in your blood crucial for building and maintaining healthy cells and hormones. It has no symptoms so many people may not be aware of their risk.
• The recommended target cholesterol level is less than 200 milligrams per deciliter of blood.
• About 25% of cholesterol comes from food (meat, fish, dairy), and the rest is produced by the body.
There are two forms of cholesterol:
Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) — also known as the “bad” cholesterol, can form plaque, clogging arteries and leading to heart disease and stroke.
High-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) — the “good” cholesterol, helps clean the artery walls and removes excess bad cholesterol.
Triglycerides
• A type of fat in the bloodstream that provides energy for body tissues to function
• Like cholesterol, high triglyceride levels (over 200 mg/dL) increase the risk of heart disease.
• Dietary and lifestyle changes help lower triglyceride levels: Avoid fatty foods and foods high in cholesterol such as processed meat, fried food, and whole-fat dairy products. Choose to eat fruits, vegetables, and nonfat or low-fat dairy. Opt for foods high in good, unsaturated fats.
Blood Pressure
• Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of your arteries and can vary due to many factors
• Normal blood pressure is usually less than 120/80 mm Hg (millimeters of mercury)
