Health Tip: Why Get a Cholesterol Test?

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Cholesterol is a waxy, fatty blood substance that your body needs to keep cells healthy. It’s produced by your liver and also is found in animal-based foods.

There are two kinds of cholesterol: “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and “good” high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Too much “bad” cholesterol can clog your arteries and raise your risk of heart attack and stroke.

Your doctor may order a cholesterol test as a part of a routine exam or if you have at least one of these risk factors:

• High blood pressure.
• Type 2 diabetes.
• Tobacco use.
• Overweight.
• Insufficient exercise.
• A diet high in saturated fat.

Source: HealthDay

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