What do I need to do to get my numbers down? My total cholesterol is 255; HDL 51; LDL 69.
I don't like taking statin meds. I recently started eating grapefruit, oranges, and lemons on a daily basis. I am also interested in taking CholestOff, but don't know much about it. I also exercise regularly each week: aerobics 2 x's, Curves 1 x, and walking at least an hour 1 x a week; also ride stationary bike 1-2 x's a week; occasionally ride regular outside bike. I am 66 years old and diabetic (well-controlled).
Hi Robbia,
Sounds like you are doing a great job taking care of yourself. I'm surprised with all your activity that your HDL isn't higher. Here's a breakdown of where your numbers fall.
HDL - Needs to be above 40, ideally greater than 60. Being physically active is the best way to boost HDL, which you are doing. Here's an article you might enjoy that support's raising HDL - Long workouts best for raising good cholesterol.
LDL - Needs to be less than 130. You have no worries here.
Triglycerides - I've calculated your triglycerides to be 675. This is your problem area and not a big surprise since you are diabetic also. Triglycerides should be less than 200 (some MD's prefer less than 150). Sugar and alcohol have the greatest impact on triglyceride levels. Here's an article where you can learn ways to lower your triglycerides - Triglycerides: Why they matter and how to lower them.
Total cholesterol - Needs to be less than 200. As you lower triglycerides, your total cholesterol will follow. Here's a formula to calculate total cholesterol:
Total cholesterol = HDL + LDL + VLDL
VLDL = Triglycerides divided by 5
I hope that helps you see how triglycerides play a role in your total cholesterol and how you'll benefit by reducing your triglycerides.
If you have further questions, be sure to submit them.
All the best,
Lisa Nelson, RD, LN
- Thank you for your input
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You could try gugulipid or red yeast rice.
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