Know your numbers.
June 7, 2009
Hello once again! Dr. Mix here with an update on your cholesterol numbers. Individual cholesterol numbers for HDL and LDL are often used by physicians to assess a patient’s risk of developing heart disease. The American Heart Association recommends that your total cholesterol be below 200, your LDL be below 100, and your HDL should be above 40 for men and above 50 for women. Many physicians feel that the total cholesterol to HDL ratio is a better predictor of overall heart disease risk than either number alone. Ideally, the total cholesterol to HDL ratio should be less than 4.0. Your triglycerides (another type of fat in your blood and another risk factor for heart disease) should be below 150.
For more information about your cholesterol numbers, visit our Natural Remedies resource library and click on: High Blood Cholesterol. What You Need to Know.
Until next time, thanks for visiting and here’s wishing you a naturally healthy day!
Dr. Joe Mix
NaturalHealthMix.com
Why is HDL cholesterol “good”?
March 8, 2009
There are primarily two types of cholesterol in the body: LDL or “bad” cholesterol and HDL or “good” cholesterol. In a previous post, I discussed the health risks associated with LDL, which is largely attributed to the fact that it is so readily oxidized. Oxidized LDL initiates an inflammatory response by the body which is thought to result in plaque formation (atherosclerosis) and blockages of the coronary vessels. HDL is the other type of cholesterol and is commongly referred to as “good cholesterol”. This nickname stems from the fact that HDL acts as a scavenger by binding to the LDL and transporting it to the liver where it is incorporated into bile and removed from the body through the intestinal tract.
Until next time, here’s wishing you well, my friend!
Dr. Joe Mix
NaturalHealthMix.com
Why is LDL cholesterol “bad”?
March 1, 2009
There are, generally speaking, two types of cholesterol: LDL or “bad” cholesterol, and HDL or “good” cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is readily oxidized by free radicals (highly unstable molecules, usually containing oxygen, which attempt to “steal” electrons from healthy cells and tissues in order to acheive stability). Oxidized LDL cholesterol is seen by the body as a foreign substance and an immune response is initiated. Specialized cells of the immune system, known as macrophages, attack and engulf the oxidized LDL cholesterol in an attempt to control it. The result is a “foam cell” which ruptures and spills it cholesterol-laden substance on the lining of blood vessels, thereby increasing the liklihood of plaque build up and blocked blood vessels.
Don’t let this happen to you! Be sure to consume foods and supplements which contain plenty of plant sterols and antioxidants. As always, have a naturally healthy day!
Dr. Joe Mix
NaturalHealthMix.com
About Cholesterol
February 22, 2009
My father died of a heart attack when I was a small baby and I have always been interested in the relationship between high levels of cholesterol and heart disease. I would like to take this opportunity to shed some light on this connection and suggest ways that you can lower your risk of heart disease.
Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in the body and is necessary for life. It is found in cell membranes and is also found in bile. Basically, there are 2 types of cholesterol: LDL, or “good” cholesterol, and HDL, or “bad” cholesterol. The arteries that supply blood to the heart can become clogged when there is too much cholesterol in the body, or when it becomes oxidized by free radicals (this will be the subject of another discussion so be sure to check back). Clogged heart arteries can lead to a heart attack. Risk factors for heart disease include heredity, high cholesterol, high levels of homocysteine (an amino acid), high levels of c-reactive protein (an inflammatory marker), high blood pressure, smoking, and inactivity.
Taking a daily supplement containing Vitamins B2, B6, B12, Folic acid, and trimethylglycene (betaine), can help reduce levels of homocysteine in the blood. Cholesterol can be lowered by consuming a diet low in saturated fat and rich in plant sterols. Antioxidants such as beta-carotene, Vitamin E, Vitamin C, lycopene, L-carnitine, olive and grape seed extracts, and bioflavinoids from citrus fruits, are very beneficial and prevent the oxidation of LDL cholesterol which lowers the risk of heart disease.
Until next time, here’s wishing you a naturally healthy day!
Dr. Joe Mix
NaturalHealthMix.com