High Cholesterol

If you’re among the 38% of Americans who have high cholesterol, there’s no better time than the present to start reversing your condition. At Seva Family Medicine in Parker, Colorado, the experienced medical providers, including Gurvinder Mangat, MD, and Shannon Mangat, FNP-C, offer patient-focused care for high cholesterol. They’re ready to help you lower your numbers and start a healthy future, so call the office or use the online booking feature today.

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What is high cholesterol?

High cholesterol means you have excessive amounts of a waxlike fatty substance called cholesterol in your body. Your cholesterol number is measured through a blood test that gives you several numbers, including:

• Low-density lipoproteins (LDL): The bad cholesterol
• High-density lipoproteins (HDL): The good cholesterol (which removes bad cholesterol)
• Total cholesterol: A combination of your LDL and HDL

Generally, a high cholesterol reading is a total cholesterol number higher than 200 mg/dL. Your cholesterol test also reveals your triglycerides, another type of fat that can adversely affect your health.

Why is high cholesterol harmful to my health?

High cholesterol can cause narrowing in your blood vessels, which can increase the risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD), heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, stroke, and hypertension (high blood pressure).

When do I need to test for high cholesterol?

Monitoring your cholesterol levels is important for keeping track of your overall health, so many people have a cholesterol blood test during their annual checkup. If you’re healthy and are at low risk for high cholesterol, you may only need tests every 4-6 years.

After age 40, or if you have certain risk factors for high cholesterol, you may need more frequent testing.

High cholesterol risk factors include:

• Smoking
• Diet high in saturated and trans fats (bad fats)
• Struggling with your weight
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Excessive alcohol consumption

Many people with high cholesterol also experience high blood pressure and Type 2 diabetes, so if you’re diagnosed with one or both of these conditions, you may need a new cholesterol test. Cholesterol testing is available on-site at Seva Family Medicine.

How can I reduce my cholesterol levels?

Seva Family Medicine can help you to reduce your cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication. Some dietary changes that can help you lower your cholesterol include:

• Cutting down on saturated fats, like those in red meat and many dairy products
• Cutting out trans fats, such as fried food
• Eating more foods with omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon and blueberries
• Eating more whole grains
• Eating less refined grains

Regular exercise is also important in implementing a healthy lifestyle. If you struggle with your weight, a medical weight loss program can help. Losing just 5-10% of your extra weight can significantly lower your cholesterol level.

If lifestyle changes aren’t effective at lowering your cholesterol, your provider may prescribe a medication that helps reduce your cholesterol levels. However, you need to stick with a healthy lifestyle to get the full cholesterol-lowering benefits of medication.

Seva Family Medicine can develop effective treatment plans that help lower cholesterol levels and improve your health, taking into account your overall well-being. Book your appointment online or call the office today to learn more.