By: Eoin Moriarty, Internal Medicine Physician Assistant at Signature Healthcare
As a primary care provider, I believe that a very important topic that needs to be understood with my patients is cholesterol. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is in the blood. Studies show that those with elevated levels of certain cholesterols can lead to increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. Most people believe that all cholesterol is bad; however, that is not the case. There is both healthy (HDL) and unhealthy (LDL) cholesterol!
LDL cholesterol is known as the “bad cholesterol” which resides in many of our fatty foods such as fried or oily foods, red meat, and dairy products. Some LDL cholesterol can be helpful to perform functions in the body but in excess, it can cause issues. In order to reduce the risks of cardiovascular issues and strokes, patients should try to keep their LDL cholesterol levels less than 100 mg/dL. In order to do so, I typically recommend that my patients should not only be reducing their intake of foods high in LDL cholesterol but also reduce their smoking/stress and work on their fitness. It’s imperative to perform cardiovascular exercises such as walking, running, hiking, and swimming to promote a healthy lifestyle.
HDL cholesterol is a major cause of confusion among patients. HDL cholesterol is considered to be healthy cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps absorb harmful cholesterol in the blood and transports the substance to areas in the body such as the liver. An ideal HDL cholesterol level would be above 60 mg/dL. Typically, if I meet a patient with a low HDL cholesterol level, I will recommend increasing their intake of “healthy fats” such as omega-3 fish oils, whole grains, nuts, and olive oil (in moderation).
When meeting with your primary care provider, the topic of cholesterol can be daunting but patients need to understand that we are all works in progress. There is no judgment in the primary care office. Your PCP is there to help and will be able to provide recommendations or medication to help keep your cholesterol both HDL and LDL at an appropriate level. For those curious about their cholesterol levels, I strongly encourage receiving a blood test called a “lipid panel” to find out your numbers at your next primary care appointment. If you have any questions regarding cholesterol, I’ll be happy to answer.
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