Cholestrol Management

What is Cholesterol?

Cardiovascular disease results in approximately one death every 40 seconds in the US; however, lowering your blood cholesterol levels can help decrease your risk of not only heart disease, but also strokes and other possible health issues.

But first, what exactly is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance produced and regulated by the liver. It is needed for hormone production, vitamin D, and digestion. It occurs naturally in the body as well as in various foods.

Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream in fat packages called lipoprotein; our body has low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). LDL cholesterol is also commonly referred to as “bad cholesterol,” as the higher LDL cholesterol levels are, the higher the risk of heart disease. Triglycerides, the main form of fat in our bodies, are the end product of digesting and breaking down fats in meals. High triglyceride levels (“good cholesterol”), when combined with high LDL or low HDL levels, can increase the chances of cardiovascular disease even further.

Checking your cholesterol levels regularly with your healthcare provider, as well as a lipid panel for triglycerides, are important to keep your cholesterol level in check and lower your risk of heart disease.
At Dr. Rizvi’s family care clinic, you can keep an eye on your cholesterol levels and get information on various ways that can help you keep your cholesterol in check including medication and lifestyle changes.

Visit Dr. Rizvi’s Complete Family Healthcare Clinic located at 901 San Bernardino Road, Suite 104, Upland, CA 91786-4963. Or give us a call and book your appointment on (909) 946-0844.