Cholesterol

There are two types of cholesterol - good and bad. It's important to keep it at healthy levels because high blood cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Cholesterol is one of the fats in your blood. Your body uses it to make cell membranes, vitamin D and hormones. The two types of cholesterol are:

1. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is often called the bad cholesterol because high levels in the blood promotes the buildup of plaque in the artery walls.

2. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is called the good cholesterol because it helps carry LDL-cholesterol away from the artery walls.

Triglycerides are not a type of cholesterol. However, they are a type of fat that is found in the blood. High triglycerides are associated with excess weight, excess alcohol consumption and diabetes. Your triglyceride level is usually measured at the same time as your blood cholesterol.

For more information about cholesterol check out the following websites:

Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada

Up-to-date Patient Information

Services in your area that may help:

The Improving Health: My Way Program helps individuals with chronic health problems to manage their health, and maintain active and fulfilling lives, despite the challenges associated with chronic illnesses. For more information contact selfmanagement@westernhealth.nl.ca or look at our website.