National Cholesterol Education Month
Over 102 million adults in the United States have high cholesterol. Therefore, September was announced as National Cholesterol Education Month. It is a good time to learn how to prevent high cholesterol, get checked for your own cholesterol levels and learn what they mean.
Cholesterol is found in your body and in many foods as a waxy, fat-like substance. Total cholesterol levels at or above 200 mg/DL is considered above healthy levels and anyone with levels 240 mg/dL or higher are considered at high risk of heart disease.
To lower your risk, get your cholesterol checked every 5 years, eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, stay physically active, maintain a healthy weight, and avoid smoking.