For those who are at risk of heart attacks, attempting to lower your cholesterol levels can help to minimize it. If you have any early signs of heart disease, it is important that you understand how your cholesterol levels are related to your risk of heart attacks, so that you can take proper steps and make lifestyle changes that can protect you.

Heart Attacks and Cholesterol Levels

As you likely already know, there are 2 types of cholesterol: HDL (the “good” cholesterol) and LDL (the “bad” cholesterol). Your LDL levels are generally the cholesterol levels that your doctor will advise you to keep an eye on, especially if you’re at risk of heart disease.

LDL, more formally known as low-density lipoprotein, can cause a buildup of fibrous deposits on the walls of your arteries. This restricts the blood flow through these arteries. When the blood flow is restricted enough in a major artery, it can become blocked, and this is the leading cause of heart attacks.

This is why it is important to manage your cholesterol levels if you are at risk of heart disease. If you already have a family history of high cholesterol and heart attacks, keeping your LDL levels low can minimize buildups in your arteries and prevent you from experiencing a cardiac episode.

Ways to Manage Cholesterol

If you’re concerned about your risk for heart disease, there are many ways that you can help to keep your cholesterol at a healthy level. Here are a few suggestions:

• Exercise regularly
• Quit smoking
• Manage your stress
• Lose weight
• Avoid foods high in saturated fats
• Take statins (cholesterol-lowering medication)

Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your cholesterol levels or have a history of heart attacks in family members, especially if you have family members who experienced heart attacks at a young age. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best way to minimize your risk of heart problems.