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Dyslipidemia refers to unhealthy levels of one or more kinds of lipid in your blood. There are three kinds of lipids: high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides. Someone experiencing dyslipidemia usually has higher LDL or triglyceride levels or lower HDL levels.
LDL cholesterol—often referred to as “bad” cholesterol—can build up and form plaque in the walls of arteries. Too much plaque buildup can cause a heart attack. HDL cholesterol breaks down LDL cholesterol, making it known as “good” cholesterol.
How does the body get cholesterol?
The liver uses stored fats, sugars, and proteins to make about 80% of the cholesterol the body needs in order to make hormones, help metabolism to work correctly, and produce vitamin D. The other 20% of cholesterol needed comes from food eaten, so eat heart-healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Much like hypertension, high cholesterol doesn’t have obvious symptoms. However, dyslipidemia can lead to serious heart conditions, like coronary artery disease. High cholesterol is discovered through routine blood work, which you can begin at age 20.
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