When we think of cholesterol, we often think of it in a negative context. But the reality is—cholesterol in and of itself isn’t an enemy.

In fact, your body actually needs it to function properly. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Powdersville takes a few minutes to break down cholesterol and what it does for the body.

What Does Cholesterol Do?

Cholesterol is often only referenced when it’s high, which is why we so often think it’s a negative. But cholesterol is a waxy substance that’s found in the body and produces hormones that help regulate digestion.

When you have normal levels of it, it keeps your body functioning optimally. But when you have too much, that’s when the problem occurs. It can build up in the arteries as plaque, causing blockages.

High Cholesterol Risk Factors

• Being overweight or obese
• Living a sedentary lifestyle
• Having a diet high in saturated fat
• Being age 45 or older for men or 55 or older for women
• Having a family history of high cholesterol

How Can I Maintain a Normal Cholesterol Level?

Take a good look at the risk factors we’ve just identified for high cholesterol. While you can’t control your age or family medical history, you can control the other risk factors.

Your best way to reduce your risk of high cholesterol and maintain a normal cholesterol level is to reverse those factors. A healthy lifestyle is how you do that.

Ways to Prevent High Cholesterol

• Eat a diet filled with fruits and vegetables.
• Limit your intake of saturated fat, added sugars and sodium.
• Get to—and maintain—a healthy weight.
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days.

Feeling under the weather? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Powdersville today to get the care you need from the comfort of home.