High Cholesterol Treatment Specialist
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Wielenga Medical Group
Robert J. Wielenga, M.D.
Geriatric Physician & Family Practice Physician located in Downey, CA
High cholesterol can lead to both heart attacks and strokes, so quickly getting it under control will reduce your risk of heart disease and other health conditions that affect the cardiovascular system. Dr. Wielenga and the staff of Wielenga Medical Group can help you make positive lifestyle changes that will enhance the effectiveness of the treatments they have to offer. If you live in or near Downey, California, and are at risk for high cholesterol, make an appointment with Dr. Wielenga to have your numbers checked today.
High Cholesterol Q & A
What is the normal or healthy range for cholesterol?
For optimum health, your HDL cholesterol number should be 60 mg/dl or higher, while your LDL number should always be less than 120 to 130 mg/dl. Keeping your total cholesterol number under 200 mg/dl is ideal and what most healthcare providers recommend.
Dr. Wielenga offers cholesterol screenings at his office and can help you create an effective diet plan that will allow you to bring your cholesterol numbers back into normal range. With diet and exercise, you'll be able to reduce your cholesterol levels as well as lower your blood pressure, making it easier for your heart to function at its best.
What are the best sources for boosting HDL cholesterol?
High-density lipids or HDL cholesterol are the good kinds of cholesterol you need in your bloodstream to help reduce the amount of LDL cholesterol. The best sources for HDL cholesterol include:
- Whole grains
- Nuts
- Flax
- Fatty Fish
- Olive oil
The more HDL cholesterol you consume, the less impact the LDL form of cholesterol will have on your arteries. Including these foods in your diet on a regular basis will help your body flush the bad forms of LDL cholesterol and allow the heart and cardiovascular system to function as they were intended to do.
Can cholesterol levels be brought under control with diet and exercise?
As you age, it can be harder for you to control your cholesterol with simple diet and exercise. Eating a healthy diet and regularly exercising can slow down the process and keep the heart healthy for many years, but your digestive processes will begin to slow down as you age.
Dr. Wielenga can help you create a diet and exercise plan that will help you stay on track for as long as possible. When the time comes that medication is needed, he'll be able to discuss all the treatment options you have available to you. The longer you remain active and provide your body with the nutrients it needs, the better you'll feel.
*Individual results may vary
