cholesterol

​Cholesterol can be confusing, there’s good cholesterol and bad cholesterol. Bad cholesterol as a stroke survivor is important to understand the differences.  Also important for everyone is bad cholesterol is a leading cause of stroke.
 
In a recent Healthline Wellness Wire the first paragraph.
 
“Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found throughout your body.  It often gets a bad reputation, but you actually need a certain amount of cholesterol to make substances that are essential for good health, such as: Bile acids, which help you absorb fat – soluble vitamins.  Hormones like estrogen and androgen.  Cell membranes.
 
However, cholesterol levels that are too high can increase the risk of several chronic conditions, including stroke.”
 
In prevent mode you have regular blood work done that will include tests for cholesterol.  As mentioned, there are two types, LDL Cholesterol bad cholesterol that contributes to plaque buildup that can clog arteries, possibly break off and cause a stroke.
 
HDL Cholesterol is good cholesterol it helps clear LDL bad cholesterol from your arteries and reduce stroke risks.
 
To lower cholesterol levels visit a dietician to set up a plan that works for you.  
 
The Cleveland Clinic recommends foods to eat to reduce cholesterol such as eggs, shellfish, lean meat in moderation.  Some good foods are oats, barley and whole grains, beans, nuts, vegetable oils, apples, grapes, strawberries and citrus fruits, soy, fatty fish (omega 3).
 
Work with a dietician to see what works for you.  There are many cookbooks dedicated to recipes to help reduce cholesterol.
 
The last thing we need is another stroke.