Health Cholesterol Articles & Resources

We may then need to take steps to bring
about a lowering of our cholesterol to within a more healthy
range.

In the past, it was believed that certain foods,
particularly those containing animal fats, would cause a
rise in cholesterol. We were warned particularly against
eating too many eggs, as these were considered to be a major
culprit. More significantly, it was considered that all
cholesterol was bad cholesterol. Scientific and medical
research has more recently revealed that there are in fact
two types of cholesterol : good cholesterol, otherwise known
as High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and bad cholesterol,
otherwise known as Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL). We need
not only to keep our LDL levels low, but we need also to
keep our HDL levels high.

There are now simple tests that can be used to measure
levels of both types of cholesterol. Visit Good Cholesterol Level for tips on diagnosing cholesterol. If, having been
tested, someone has a cause for concern, there are various
measures that can be taken in order to bring about a
lowering of “bad” cholesterol. There are many products on
the market, including milk products and spreads, that
contain substances known as plant sterols. These substances
can have a significant impact on levels of LDL, and used for
sustained periods will reduce it to a more healthy reading.

Additionally, there are dietary measures that can be taken
in order to maintain both a reasonably high level of HDL (or
good cholesterol) and a low level of LDL (or bad
cholesterol). A generally healthy diet, high in fruit,
vegetables, wholegrain and healthy fats, such as olive oil
and nuts is likely to be beneficial. Surprisingly, also,
eggs are not considered to be a culprit in causing high
cholesterol. Of course, anyone who has been found to have a
problem with cholesterol needs to consult a doctor and
follow whatever advice is given in regard to the best diet
to follow. Sometimes, even those who have followed a
healthy diet may unknowingly have unhealthy and potentially
dangerous cholesterol levels. Regular testing is therefore
important in order that effective steps can be taken to
regulate it.