3) What are Lipids and How do They Relate to Atherosclerosis Part II
Last issue I discussed the recommended levels for total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL. There is however a bit more to the picture. The total cholesterol/HDL ratio can be calculated to further assess risk in regards to cholesterol and HDL scores. For example, an individual can have a negative high value for cholesterol but a positively high HDL value. Ideally, the ratio should be 3.5 with 4.5 presenting an average risk, and a ratio of 5 or higher showing a high risk. A person can have 290 mg/dl as their cholesterol and 75 mg/dl for their HDL value. Even though the cholesterol alone would be considered high they have a ratio of 3.9 which indicates a low risk.
Here are some tips to ensure a healthy heart:
1)Cut down on saturated fat.
Consume less fat, especially saturated animal fat and tropical oils such as coconut and palm. This means cutting down on fatty red meat, greasy burgers, fatty cheeses, and commercially made baked goods. You don’t have to eliminate all fats from your diet, especially if you have a healthy cholesterol level. As with most things, moderation is key.
2)Consume more soluble fiber. The fiber in oats and beans protect against heart disease. Many foods with soluble fiber are also great carbohydrate sources for sustained energy. I eat oatmeal or cream of rice most days of the week.
3)Consume fish. Some research also indicates fish oils can help prevent heart disease. The best choices are the ones highest in omega-3 fats like salmon, mackerel, albacore, tuna, and herring. Just make sure your fish is prepared in low fat methods (not fried in butter). I supplement with fish oil pills because I don’t think I eat enough fish. I’m sure I would be better off with the real thing rather than capsules.
I hope these healthy heart tips help your heart beat strongly for many years.
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I hope you enjoyed this issue of my Get Lean! Newsletter. This newsletter is for you so if there is anything you would like to know, just call me at 631-225-7831 or send an email to:
billy@howtogetlean.com
If you know of someone who has an interest in becoming more fit, please forward this newsletter to them and invite them to subscribe at my website.
www.howtogetlean.com
If you or someone you know is interested in working with a personal fitness coach, I know a good one! Give me a call at 631-225-7831.
Until next time, Be a Functional Fitness Freak,
- Billy Hofacker
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Hofe-Man Fitness Systems, LLC
Billy Hofacker, Certified Personal Trainer
Specializing in Mens Fitness Programs
Serving Lindenhurst, Long Island, Suffolk County, and New York
Lindenhurst, NY 11757-1672
Phone: 631-225-7831 • Fax 631-225-0693 • E-mail:
billy@howtogetlean.com