Health and Your Life

• Cholesterol Levels
  Cholesterol is a type of a lipid, a soft, fatlike substance that serves as a source of fuel. Excessive cholesterol can cause buildup of atherosclerotic plaque. Accumulation of plaque in arteries can block blood flow and lead to a heart attack. LDL cholesterol, the so-called "bad" cholesterol, is transported to sites throughout the body, where it's used to repair cell membranes or to make hormones. LDL cholesterol can accumulate in the walls of your arteries. HDL cholesterol, the so-called "good" cholesterol, transports cholesterol to the liver, where it's altered and removed from the body.
• Blood Pressure
  Normal blood pressure level is defined as less than 130 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) for systolic blood pressure and less than 85 mm Hg for diastolic blood pressure. The higher the blood pressure, the more likely it will take a toll on the heart and brain. Blood pressure should be regularly checked whether or not your levels are high. For normal, check once every two years. For high-normal, check once a year. If extremely high, you should get immediate care. Then get multiple measurements to know if a high level is sustained over time.
• Diabetes
  Another risk factor for heart disease is diabetes, a chronic disease of insulin deficiency or resistance. Type 2 diabetes, the most common type, is associated with obesity, and may be prevented by maintaining ideal body weight through exercise and balanced nutrition.

Tips For Controlling Risk of Heart Disease

• Stop Smoking
  Smoking destroys the lungs and entire respiratory system, reduces oxygen levels, weakens the immune system and damages the heart.
• Get Active
  Routine physical activity is highly recommended and helpful in controlling obesity. Try to perform 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. Fast walking is one of the best way to prevent heart disease. If you can lose even a small amount of weight, five pounds for example, it may have a positive effect on lipid levels and blood pressure, preventing heart disease.
• Limit Alcohol Consumption
  Limit daily alcohol intake to three ounces or fewer to prevent heart disease. People who drink large amounts of alcohol (six to eight ounces a day) tend to have higher blood pressure.
• Watch What You Eat
  Eat five helpings of fruits and vegetables daily to prevent heart disease. Heart healthy nutrition is rich in fiber and nutrients that lower cholesterol levels. Maintain adequate dietary potassium, calcium and magnesium intake. If you are unsure of the nutritional quality of your diet, add a nutritional supplement to your daily routine. Reducing cholesterol and saturated fats is important in preventing heart disease.