Cholesterol is a waxy, fatlike substance that the liver produces. It’s vital for the formation of cell membranes, vitamin D, and certain hormones. Cholesterol, therefore, is essential for the body but having to much of the substance puts a person at high risk of either a heart attack or stroke. Feeling pain in the neck, jaw, upper abdomen or back could be signs your levels are dangerously high.
Lower cholesterol
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are a healthy type of fat and is known to help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol.
Eating more salmon in your diet improves the “good” HDL cholesterol.
HDL cholesterol helps sweep cholesterol off the artery walls preventing dangerous place from forming.
Nutritionists and health expert’s advice eating at least two portions of salmon a week.
The American Heart Association recommends having your cholesterol levels checked every four to six years if you are a healthy adult over the age of 20.
If you have a family history of high cholesterol, it’s recommended to have it checked more often.
A person may also need more frequent cholesterol checks if they have a family history of heart attacks or strokes.
As high cholesterol does not cause any major symptoms in the early stages, it’s integral for one to make good lifestyle choices by eating a healthy diet, maintaining an exercise routine and regularly monitoring cholesterol levels.
The British Heart Foundation said: “Blood cholesterol levels are measured using a simple blood test.
“Your GP or practice nurse will take a blood sample, usually by pricking your finger or you might be asked to go for a blood test at your local hospital.
“Your blood is then checked for levels of good (HDL) cholesterol, bad (non-HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as getting a total cholesterol result.
“Generally speaking, for a healthy heart the aim is to have a low non-HDL level and a higher HDL level.”