ufficient amount of HDL is necessary in human body to maintain healthy functioning. HDL levels are found to be low in people with high blood sugar, high blood pressure as well as obesity. Thus it is important to make important lifestyle changes to maintain a healthy amount of HDL in the body.
Some important changes can be made to keep a healthy HDL level.
- Smoking must be avoided
- Consumption of alcohol should be stopped or done only in moderation
- Exercise must form a part of the daily routine
- Food with trans-fat content, such as cookies or fried food should be avoided
On the other hand, it is also important to get rid of the excess levels of LDL to keep a healthy physic. A little caution can keep the ‘bad’ cholesterol in check.
- Daily diet should contain whole grains and high fibre food
- Consumption of saturated fats like butter, lard, whipped cream etc. should be limited
- High calorie beverages should be replaced by water or green tea
- There are also medications available to keep ‘bad’ cholesterol in check when it cannot be lowered by lifestyle changes
Safe Levels of Cholesterol
Maintaining sufficient amount of cholesterol in the body is inevitable for the effective functioning of the brain. We should know the adequate amount of cholesterols that is needed for proper functioning of the body. Cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams of cholesterol per deciliter of blood (dL) or millimoles (mmol) per liter (L). Thus, one must have 60mg/dL (1.6 mmol/L) HDL or above. HDL level which is below 40 mg/dL is risky. Care must be taken to maintain LDL within the limit of 100 mg/dL. An increase in the LDL level has been the known cause of host of health issues including negative effects on the brain.