During Heart Health Month in February, it’s the perfect time to focus on one of the most critical factors in cardiovascular health—your lipids. Lipids, including cholesterol and triglycerides, play a key role in how your heart functions. Managing them properly can significantly reduce your risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious conditions.
Why Lipids Matter
Lipids are fats found in your blood, and while your body needs some for essential functions, too much of the wrong kind can lead to problems. High levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein), or "bad" cholesterol, can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries, leading to blockages that increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Meanwhile, HDL (high-density lipoprotein), or "good" cholesterol, helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
“Maintaining healthy lipid levels is one of the best ways to protect your heart,” says Jyl Wonnell, PA-C, of Story Medical Clinic—Nevada. “It’s not just about cholesterol numbers—it’s about creating a lifestyle that supports heart health for the long run.”
How to Keep Your Lipids in Check
The good news is that small, manageable lifestyle changes can have a big impact on your heart health.
- Eat Heart-Healthy Foods: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce saturated and trans fats found in processed foods.
- Exercise Regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Walking, cycling, and swimming are great options.
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can raise LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol.
- Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking lowers good cholesterol, while excessive alcohol consumption can raise triglyceride levels.
- Get Regular Screenings: “Routine cholesterol checks allow us to track your numbers and adjust your treatment plan as needed,” Wonnell says. “Knowing your numbers is the first step in taking control of your heart health.”
Medication and Additional Support
For some individuals, lifestyle changes alone may not be enough to keep lipid levels in a healthy range. In these cases, healthcare providers may recommend cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins.
“Not everyone needs medication, but for those at higher risk, it can be an essential part of heart disease prevention,” Wonnell explains. “Our goal is always to create a personalized plan that works best for each patient.”
Take Charge of Your Heart Health
Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., but taking steps to control your lipids can make a life-changing difference. By making simple, heart-healthy choices and partnering with your healthcare provider, you can keep your heart strong for years to come.
If you haven’t had your cholesterol checked recently, now is a great time to schedule an appointment with a provider at Story Medical Clinic—Nevada to discuss your heart health.