Children, young adults and older Americans can have high cholesterol. The food you eat and the lifestyle choices you make can help you reach personal cholesterol goals.
At least one in six Mississippians have high cholesterol – most may not even know it.
How do I know if my cholesterol is high?
High cholesterol usually doesn't have any symptoms. As a result, many people do not know that their cholesterol levels are too high. However, doctors can do a simple blood test to check your cholesterol. High cholesterol can be controlled through lifestyle changes or if necessary, through medications.
It's important to check your cholesterol levels. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.
What can I do to lower my cholesterol?
Your doctor may prescribe medications to treat your high cholesterol. In addition, you can lower your cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes:
- Better Eating: Eat more fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, and whole grains — low-fat and high-fiber food.
- More Activity: For adults, get at least two and a half hours of moderate activity, or an hour and a quarter of vigorous physical activity each week. For those aged 6-17, get an hour or more of physical activity each day.
- Weighing Right: Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quitting Smoking: Don't smoke. If you do smoke, quit — it's the quickest way to get back on the road to health.
