According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 102 million Americans have high cholesterol. If you’ve been diagnosed, you may wonder what the condition is exactly.

It’s a pretty common question, actually. We hear a lot about cholesterol but don’t really have a good understanding of it. That’s why our team at AFC Urgent Care Spring Hill wants to shed some light on the condition in today’s blog. Read on as we offer some insight.

What Is Cholesterol?

First things first, what on earth is cholesterol? You may have seen it on nutrition labels, which can make it even more confusing! Well, at its root, cholesterol is a beneficial substance found in the body.

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that helps the body produce hormones and enzymes that help keep the digestive system running efficiently. But when you have too much cholesterol, it begins to build up as plaque in the arteries. That’s when it becomes dangerous and can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Risk Factors for High Cholesterol

• Diet high in saturated fats
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Excess weight
• Smoking
• Family history of high cholesterol

How Can I Get My Cholesterol to a Normal Level?

Your first and best step is to take a look at the list of risk factors. Which ones do you have? Once you identify why you’re at risk, you can get to work to lower your risk.

Practicing healthy lifestyle habits is your best step toward maintaining normal cholesterol. While you can’t control your family medical history, you can mitigate the other risk factors.

Ways to Lower Cholesterol

• Eat a diet high in fruit and vegetables.
• Limit your intake of saturated fat and sodium.
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days.
• Don’t smoke.
• Limit your intake of alcohol.
• Get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night.

In need of medical care? Stop by AFC Urgent Care Spring Hill for a diagnosis and treatment plan.