Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver and consumed through certain foods. While the body needs cholesterol to produce hormones, Vitamin D, and to digest food, too much cholesterol can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

What is Heart Attack and Stroke?

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked, usually by a blood clot. The lack of blood flow and oxygen damages the heart muscle and can lead to death.

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is blocked or interrupted by a blood clot or a ruptured blood vessel. This deprives brain cells of oxygen and nutrients and can lead to permanent damage or death.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a type of lipid or fat that circulates in the bloodstream. It is carried by lipoproteins, which are made up of proteins and fats. There are two types of cholesterol: LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein).

LDL and HDL Cholesterol

LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, and HDL cholesterol is referred to as “good” cholesterol.

LDL cholesterol can build up on the walls of blood vessels, forming plaques that narrow and harden the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This can eventually lead to heart attack and stroke.

HDL cholesterol, on the other hand, carries excess cholesterol from other parts of the body back to the liver, where it is broken down and eliminated.

This is why HDL cholesterol is considered “good” because it may help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke.

How Does Cholesterol Affect Heart Attack and Stroke?

When LDL cholesterol levels are high, it can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, causing them to narrow and harden. Over time, the buildup of plaque can lead to a complete blockage of an artery, which can cause a heart attack or stroke.

High levels of HDL cholesterol, in contrast, may help reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke by carrying excess cholesterol away from the arteries.

How Low Should Cholesterol Go?

In general, it is recommended that people maintain an LDL cholesterol level of less than 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and an HDL cholesterol level of 40 mg/dL or higher.

However, the optimal level of LDL cholesterol may vary depending on a person’s individual risk factors for heart disease and stroke.

For people at high risk of heart attack or stroke, such as those with a history of the condition or certain medical conditions, medication may be necessary to lower their LDL cholesterol levels to less than 70 mg/dL.

Lifestyle Changes to Lower Cholesterol Levels

Lifestyle changes can also play a role in reducing cholesterol levels. These changes include:.

Eating a heart-healthy diet that’s low in saturated and trans fat, cholesterol, and sodium
Losing weight if you’re overweight or obese
Exercising regularly
Not smoking