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Real members of MyHeartDiseaseTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Do You Understand Cholesterol And What Blood Levels Mean?

A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member asked a question 💭
Westminster, MD

I think this is a misunderstood issue I’d like to explore. For perspective, I eat a varied healthy diet including beef, pork, eggs, seafood, veggies, fruit, salads, animal fats, coconut oil and avocado but avoid sugar, simple carbs, processed foods and oils. I’m 72, strong, healthy, fit on no medications. I had a full heart workup including Nuke stress and scans. in 2010, 2016 and last year while probing my Afib. All tests showed no blockages with Afib on the last test. I was on Eliquis… read more

September 29
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A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

Cholesterol levels are indeed important indicators of heart health. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on my knowledge base:

Understanding Cholesterol and Blood Levels
- Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Known as "bad" cholesterol, it contributes to fatty buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke
- Show Full Answer

Cholesterol levels are indeed important indicators of heart health. Here’s a detailed breakdown based on my knowledge base:

Understanding Cholesterol and Blood Levels
- Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Known as "bad" cholesterol, it contributes to fatty buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as "good" cholesterol, it helps remove LDL from the arteries.
- Triglycerides: High levels can also increase the risk of heart disease.

Blood Tests for Heart Disease
- Lipid Panel: Measures levels of cholesterol and other lipids to gauge heart disease risk.
- C-reactive Protein (CRP): Measures inflammation levels; high levels indicate a raised risk for heart disease.
- Troponin: High levels indicate recent heart damage.
- Brain Natriuretic Peptide (BNP): Blood levels rise when the heart is damaged.
- Plasma Ceramides: High levels indicate a raised risk for heart disease.

Managing Cholesterol
- Medications: Antihyperlipidemic medications can lower LDL and VLDL cholesterol, decrease triglyceride levels, and increase HDL cholesterol.
- Diet: Focus on fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, fish, low-fat dairy, and healthy unsaturated fats. Avoid saturated fats, sodium, and processed foods.

Lifestyle Changes
- Exercise: Regular physical activity strengthens the heart, controls cholesterol and blood pressure, promotes a healthy weight, and improves mood.
- Smoking: Quitting smoking is crucial as it raises blood pressure, damages blood vessels, and increases the risk of heart disease.

Personal Experience and Side Effects
- Statins: Commonly prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol. Examples include Simvastatin, Rosuvastatin, and Atorvastatin.
- Side Effects: Some people may experience muscle pain, digestive problems, and increased blood sugar levels.

Your Specific Case
Given your healthy lifestyle and the absence of blockages in your tests, maintaining your current diet and exercise regimen seems beneficial. However, regular monitoring and consultations with your healthcare provider are essential to manage your Afib and overall heart health.

Additional Resources
For more detailed information, you can refer to the articles on heart disease diagnosis and treatments:
- [Heart Disease – The Path to Diagnosis](https://www.MyHeartDiseaseTeam.com/resources/he...)
- [Is Coronary Heart Disease Reversible?](https://www.MyHeartDiseaseTeam.com/resources/is...)
- [Treatments for Heart Disease](https://www.MyHeartDiseaseTeam.com/resources/tr...)

Feel free to ask more questions or share your experiences!

September 29
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

I have had a high cholesterol and triglyceride for 30+ years even though I have been on statins, but on my last 6 months physical in April 24, my blood levels are now normal. I had a triple bypass in April 22 and been placed on Trulicity and Jardiance for my diabetes. I have also lost 50+ pounds since the change of medications. I'm not sure which of those helped my cholesterol and triglycerides, but am hoping that my October physical will have those same blood level results.

September 29
A MyHeartDiseaseTeam Member

Good question because my cholesterol has always been in the normal range. So it was a complete surprise to me when the cardiologist put me on a statin. I do have 30% blockage in one artery on the right side of my heart and we recently discovered a slight build up in my left carotid artery. She said treatment right now is diet, exercise and meds. She started me on 6 meds...niw I'm down to 3 because I've been doing well.

September 29

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