Cholesterol is a waxy substance that helps form cell membranes in our bodies. It also plays a role in many other functions, including hormone production, nerve transmission, and immune system function. Too much cholesterol in the blood can cause heart disease, while too little can lead to liver problems.
Here’s everything you need to know about cholesterol testing.
Cholesterol levels are measured by taking a sample of blood. This test measures total cholesterol (TC), HDL (good) cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, triglycerides, and more. You should have your cholesterol tested every five years starting at age 20. If you’re under age 40, you should have your cholesterol checked annually.
The most common type of cholesterol test is called a total cholesterol test. A doctor might order one if he suspects you have high cholesterol levels, or if you’re planning to take statins (medications used to lower cholesterol). In addition to measuring your total cholesterol level, doctors often check your HDL (good) cholesterol and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Doctors use these numbers to determine whether you should be taking statins.
What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in animal fats and vegetable oils. It’s also present in some foods such as eggs, milk, cheese, meat, fish, shellfish, and poultry.
The American Heart Association recommends that men eat less than 300 milligrams of dietary cholesterol per day and women should limit themselves to 200 mg. However, there is some disagreement among experts regarding what constitutes a safe amount of cholesterol. Some say that eating foods high in cholesterol does not necessarily increase your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Others believe that eating foods high in saturated fat increases the risk of heart disease. Still others think that eating foods high in trans fats (which are found in processed foods) raises the risk of heart disease because they raise LDL levels in the blood.
Why Should I Know About My Cholesterol Levels?
Cholesterol is essential for good health. However, too much cholesterol in the blood can lead to serious health issues. This includes cardiovascular diseases (CVD), high blood pressure, and even cancer.
The American Heart Association recommends that people who are at risk for cardiovascular disease get tested for high cholesterol levels every five years. If you have a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or stroke, you should be tested more frequently. You should also know if you have high triglyceride levels, which can increase your risk of heart disease.
The American Heart Association recommends that people who are at risk for cardiovascular disease get tested for high cholesterol levels every five years. If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, talk to your doctor about what steps you should take to lower your cholesterol level. You might be able to reduce your risk of heart disease by taking certain medications or changing your diet.
The American Heart Association recommends that people between the ages of 20 and 75 get checked every five years for high cholesterol levels. If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, you should be aware of what causes it and how to manage it.
How Can I Check My Cholesterol Level?
There are several ways to check your cholesterol level. You can ask your doctor to test your cholesterol levels. Or you can use a home cholesterol testing kit. If you choose to go with a home cholesterol testing kit, make sure to follow the instructions carefully.
The best way to check your cholesterol level is to get tested at your doctor’s office. However, if you want to know what your current levels are, there are several ways to do so. One method involves taking a sample of your blood. Another option is to take a stool sample. If you choose the latter, you should be aware that some people find the smell of feces unpleasant. You can also use a home cholesterol testing kit. These kits are available online and at drugstores.
The best way to check your cholesterol level is to get tested at your doctor’s office. You should be able to find out what your total cholesterol level is, as well as your LDL (bad) cholesterol and HDL (good) cholesterol levels. If you want to know if you have high triglycerides, ask your doctor to order a lipid panel.