Cholesterol Tests

Do you know why cholesterol tests are different from other kinds of medical tests? It is because cholesterol tests are used to calculate the increased risk of heart disease rather that diagnosing or monitoring it. Experts said that the hardening of the blood vessels is associated with high blood cholesterol. It is because of the LDL cholesterol or low density lipoproteins that are accumulated in the blood stream and is one of the main causes of heart diseases. In order to prevent heart disease, one must take cholesterol tests.

Every individual should take the cholesterol tests every five years or more if they have been diagnosed of high blood cholesterol. This is regularly done in combination of routine physical examinations. Cholesterol tests are taken in concoction of other tests. These include HDL (high density lipoprotein or "good" cholesterol), LDL (low density lipoprotein or "bad" cholesterol) and triglycerides or lipid profile.

Usually blood samples are taken from the veins of the fore arm though sometimes blood samples from the fingertips are taken. The blood sample take will then be analyzed by a cholesterol testing device. Cholesterol tests are done several times a year in those who are on a prescribed diet or low calorie diet and for those who are taking cholesterol lowering medications. Cholesterol tests are used to monitor the progress in lowering the cholesterol level.

If you have taken a cholesterol tests you already know that the test results are grouped in three types. These are the:

* Desirable - the cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL below is regarded to be desirable because it has a low risk of heart disease.
* Borderline high - a total cholesterol level of 200 mg/dL to 240 mg/dL is at fair risk of having heart disease. If you have this kind of cholesterol level, your doctor will more likely decide to let you have a lipid profile so that he will know which cholesterol level is high. Whether it is LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) or HDL (good cholesterol).
* High Risk - a 240 mg/dL cholesterol level is considered to be at high risk of heart disease. Expect a lipid profiling if your cholesterol level is this high. It is more likely that you will be given a prescribe cholesterol lowering medication along with a low cholesterol diet.

Cholesterol tests are usually given when the individual is healthy because the blood cholesterol level of an individual who has an acute illness, (after a heart attack or after surgery or accident) are likely to be low. Individuals are advised to wait at least six weeks after any illness before taking cholesterol tests. Pregnant women are also advised to wait six weeks before having their cholesterol level measured.

Tips On Cholesterol Tests

Lower Cholesterol Naturally with Policosanol

Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the "bad cholesterol", carriescholesterol in the blood and is associated with a greater riskof heart attacks and strokes. Berthold, Policosanol:. High-density lipoprotein (HDL), the "good cholesterol",transports cholesterol to the liver where is is eliminated fromthe body. Policosanol Lowers Cholesterol and LDL and Raises HDL Policosanol is a natural supplement made from sugar cane.

Ten Cholesterol Lowering Food Tips

Cholesterol lowering food tip #3. Try to use oliveoil, vinegar or lemon juice. Cholesterol lowering tip #10. Trans fats willincrease the level of LDL cholesterol in your blood stream anddecrease the good HDL cholesterol. Sandwich's are good to eat forlunch or when you're in a rush.

Oatmeal Has Great Benefits To Cholesterol Watchers And Weight Watchers.

People who eat breakfast, like a bowl of oatmeal for instance,tend to weigh less than those who skip it. Research clearly indicates:. On the subject of healthy eating and weight control - don'tforget that you need seven daily servings minimum of fruit andvegetables to maintain health.

Your Cholesterol Levels

240 and above LDL Cholesterol (mg/dl) Desirable:. Below 200 Borderline:. The high density lipoproteins are known as good cholesterol. Make sure to check with your physician before starting any new diet or exercise cholesterol tests regimen. Should the numbers show outside of the normal range, your doctor may ask for a fasting cholesterol test.

Lower Your Cholesterol and Increase Your Chance of Stroke

Using cholesterol lowering drugs may artificially lower cholesterol levels, however, they will also increase the death rate from stroke. As you can see, cholesterol itself is not bad. Cholesterol is an essential part of each and every cell membrane. For a No cost Report - mailto:report@lc-nutrition.com Discover proven nutrition information visit:. You can keep oxidation of cholesterol in check by eating plenty of food and supplements which are rich in anti-oxidants.

When Lifestyle Changes Are Not Enough: High Cholesterol May Not Be Your Fault

Do not be discouraged. Monitoring and analysis are two more of our primary services. (NC)-High cholesterol affects more than 10 million Canadians and is a modifiable risk factor for heart disease, the number one killer of Canadians. The remaining 80 per cent is manufactured in the body by your liver.

15 Most Frequently Asked Questions About Cholesterol

5 - How does it affect my lifestyle? The 15 questions that most people ask about cholesterol are:. cholesterol tests The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any disease. 3 - How do I know if Im at risk? Emily Clark is editor at Lifestyle Health News and Medical Health News where you can find the most up-to-date advice and information on many medical, health and lifestyle topics.