Your Health - Hints & Tips
At Westpark Fitness, we are passionate about getting you moving. And to get moving, you need to get inspired. Now, that’s where we come in. Read our articles for some expert insight into upcoming exercise innovations, new classes, training tips, plus common pitfalls to avoid so you can reach your exercise and wellness goals.
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a soft white wax-like substance which is found in every cell in our body. It has an important role as it is part of the walls or membrane of each cell. It is a key component in the manufacture of hormones and the production of energy. The body is able to manufacture cholesterol on its own, additional cholesterol is absorbed from the foods we eat...
There are 'good' and 'bad' forms of cholesterol
we mainly just hear about the bad ones but cholesterol is an essential element of all living cells. In the bloodstream cholesterol is attached to proteins and is transported in the form of complex molecules called lipoproteins.
HDL – (High density lipoproteins) is know as good
because a high level of HDL helps to protect against atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) which can lead to many heart problems for example heart attacks / strokes. HDL works by removing cholesterol away from the artery wall.
LDL – (Low density lipoproteins) is known as bad cholesterol
because it deposits cholesterol plaques onto the wall of the arteries. Therefore when LDL levels are high - atherosclerosis or cardiovascular disease can develop. This is especially in the case of somebody who smokes or has high blood pressure (hypertension) or diabetes.
Triglycerides are another type of fat, which are carried in the blood by very low density lipoproteins. A high triglycerides level may accompany a high LDL level. A high cholesterol level (above 6) is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, it is recommended that your total cholesterol should not be greater than 5.
How can I raise my good cholesterol and lower my bad cholesterol?
- Good healthy diet avoid saturated fat, which can be found in fatty red meat. Full fat dairy product, fried foot, sugary foods.
- Regular exercise – increases the ability to clear fat particles from the blood stream. Exercises increases HDL (good cholesterol) and lowers LDL (bad cholesterol.
- Stop smoking – as this lowers HDL (good cholesterol)
- Some people may need to take cholesterol lowering medication.
What should I do if I have high cholesterol?
- Switch to a healthy diet lower in saturated fat and increase your exercise, in some people your cholesterol can be lowered in 6 weeks. The problem with people is not switching to a new diet and exercise program it is maintaining it.
- If lifestyle changes are not enough to lower your cholesterol then you may need medication. These help the body to stop making cholesterol – reducing the level in the blood and reduce the risk of heart disease. Cholesterol lowering drugs and most effective with the correct diet and exercise.
