High Triglyceride/Cholesterol Levels
Women can reduce their risk for heart disease
by controlling their triglyceride levels (levels of the
most common type of fat in our bodies). About 25 percent
of American women have high cholesterol levels (240 mg/dL
or above), and more than half of women over age 55 in the
United States need to lower their blood cholesterol. This
waxy substance can cause hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis),
the major cause of heart attacks.
Although excess weight tends to increase your blood cholesterol
level, heredity and diet also contribute to the condition.
High cholesterol can run in families, and a diet high in
saturated fat and cholesterol can cause high blood cholesterol
levels. The good news is that you can lower your blood cholesterol
levels and, in turn, slow, stop, or even reverse buildup
in the arteries by adopting a healthy lifestyle. (For more
information, see "Cholesterol
Management.")
Reference
“Women,
Heart Disease, and Stroke,” American Heart Association,
2002.
Source of Material: RockHill Communications, 14
Rock Hill Road Bala, Cynwyd, PA 19004, (610) 667-2040, http://www.RockHillCommunications.com
Writer: Christine Norris
Editors: Andrea King, Joanne Poeggel, Erin Murphy, Ron
Wozny
Clinical Reviewer: Patt Panzer, M.D. - RockHill Communications
Date Written: 3/1/01
Last Reviewed & Updated: 5/31/2003 |
