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Dr. A. Pierre Bamdad
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Good health can be won, but often it takes developing the proper balance of the two different cholesterols in the body. On the good side, there’s high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol – so named for its ability to protect against heart attack when high levels are present; then, on the other, there’s low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol. Together with high triglyceride and Lp(a) cholesterol levels, excessive LDL has been proven to cause plaque and bloodstream blockages, resulting in a potentially fatal condition called “artherosclerosis.” Not a pretty outcome in the least.
Cholesterol is produced naturally in the body and by the foods we eat. A. Pierre Bamdad, M.D., F.A.C.C., F.S.C.A.I., a cardiologist with the Heart Institute of Northwest Ohio (HINO), adds that if cholesterol runs in your family, you’re most likely going to be at greater risk. Yet, that’s no reason to be discouraged.
“While high cholesterol is one of the major contributing factors in heart and vascular disease, it usually can be
controlled through drug therapies and lifestyle changes,” Dr. Bamdad said. “If you smoke tobacco, quit. If you don’t
exercise regularly, start. And, change your diet to heart-healthy mix, including generous amounts of vegetables, fruits and high-fiber foods.”
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Dr. Mehran Arabpour
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According to Mehran Arabpour, D.O., F.A.C.C., a cardiologist with HINO, the biggest offenders for high cholesterol content fall into the meat, poultry, shellfish and dairy categories. So, it’s important to limit your portions and work with your primary care physician to develop a diet and treatment strategy that’s right for you.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimates that 90 million American adults, roughly half the adult population, have elevated cholesterol levels. Contact The Heart & Vascular Institute at Lima Memorial today to learn if you’re among them and what to do about it.
