Point of View

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in all parts of the body. It helps make cell membranes, some hormones, and Vitamin D. Cholesterol comes from two sources: your body and the food you eat. Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. Eating too much cholesterol in animal foods like meats, whole milk dairy products, egg yolks, poultry, and fish can make your cholesterol go up. However, it is the saturated fat in your diet that is the main culprit in causing your cholesterol to rise.

Total cholesterol is the most common measurement of blood cholesterol, but understanding the breakdown will give you a better idea of how to manage your overall risk of developing heart disease. Total cholesterol travels through the blood in packages called lipoproteins. There are two main types of lipoproteins: low-density (LDL) and high-density (HDL). LDL is known as the “bad” cholesterol because it can cause buildup and blockage in the arteries that carry blood to your heart. HDL is “good” or protective cholesterol. It actually carries cholesterol out of your arteries preventing buildup and blockage. Adults age 20 and over should have their cholesterol checked every five years, unless otherwise directed by their physician.

Many lifestyle–related behaviors have a dramatic effect on cholesterol. Through an improved diet of fruit, vegetables, good fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated), exercise and not smoking, you can increase your HDL and lower your LDL; reducing your risk of heart disease.

Reduce your risk for heart disease with physical activity. People who are inactive are more likely to develop health problems. Regular physical activity can help you reduce your risk of heart disease, heart attacks and stroke.

Being active helps you to:

• Manage weight

• Control blood pressure

• Control cholesterol (increase HDL)

• Manage diabetes

It also offers these benefits:

• Strengthens heart, bones, muscles and lungs

• Gives you more energy

• Helps you control stress

• Helps you sleep better

• Helps you look better

• Helps you feel upbeat

You don’t have to run a marathon to be physically fit. You can benefit from moderate activities including walking, gardening, yard work and dancing. Additionally, by making small changes in your daily lifestyle, you can make big changes in your physical health. Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking farther away from the stores and walking, or taking a 10-15 minute walk during your lunch break.

Contributed by WinningHabits.com staff writer for GuideStone Financial Resources.