Cholesterol and Women's Cardiovascular Health


Cholesterol is a natural substance that helps the body grow and function, but having abnormal levels of cholesterol can be harmful. High cholesterol is a major risk factor in cardiovascular disease. Keeping your cholesterol in the normal range is one of the key ways you can reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and stay healthy throughout your life.

High cholesterol is a condition when you have too much fat in your blood.

What can I do to help lower my cholesterol?

  • Change the way you eat.
  • Make an appointment with a dietitian
  • Eat foods that do not have much fat or grease
  • Eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables every day
  • Eat more whole grains and less red meat

Set goals by knowing your numbers

How much should I weigh?
What do I weigh?
What is my cholesterol goal number?
What is my cholesterol number?

Too much fat in your blood can cause a stroke, heart attack or heart disease.

  • Change what you do every day
  • Exercise or walk at least 30 minutes every day
  • Work hard on your diet and exercise to keep from being overweight
  • Do not smoke

How can my doctor tell if I have high cholesterol?

Your doctor does a blood test
If you are at least 20 years old, your doctor should test your blood to measure fat levels.

Medications are available to help to lower your cholesterol.

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