Three numbers that could save your heart: cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose
November 8, 2024Categories: Blog Posts
Tags: Heart
Understanding your cardiovascular health is key to reducing your risk of heart disease, the leading cause of death globally. Among the many factors that contribute to heart health, three key numbers provide a clear snapshot of your risk: cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose. Each of these metrics tells a different story about your body’s overall function, and knowing your levels can help you take proactive steps toward maintaining or improving your heart health.
Cholesterol, often divided into “good” (HDL) and “bad” (LDL) types, plays a significant role in cardiovascular health. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing your risk of a heart attack or stroke.
Robert Singer, MD, a cardiologist at Nazareth Hospital, emphasizes that “keeping LDL levels in check will benefit long-term heart health. While some cholesterol is necessary for bodily functions, too much can lead to serious complications.”
Managing cholesterol through a healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication, if necessary, can significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Keep a watchful eye on your blood pressure, too. High blood pressure, or hypertension, can silently damage the arteries over time, leading to heart disease, stroke and kidney failure.
“Hypertension is often called the ‘silent killer’ because many people are unaware they have it until complications arise. Regular monitoring is essential to catch issues early,” Dr. Singer says.
Lifestyle changes such as reducing sodium intake, managing stress and maintaining a healthy weight are proven methods to keep blood pressure in a healthy range.
“Hypertension is often called the ‘silent killer’ because many people are unaware they have it until complications arise. Regular monitoring is essential to catch issues early.” - Dr. Robert Singer
Blood glucose levels are particularly important for individuals at risk for or living with diabetes, a condition closely linked to cardiovascular health. Elevated blood glucose, or hyperglycemia, can damage blood vessels and nerves, and ultimately—your heart.
“Managing blood glucose isn’t just about diabetes; it’s about protecting your heart,” Dr. Singer says.
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Regular glucose monitoring, combined with a balanced diet and physical activity, can help reduce the risk of heart disease, especially for those with prediabetes or diabetes.
Know your numbers to maintain heart health. By staying informed about your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose levels, you can take active steps to prevent cardiovascular disease.
The good news is that even if your numbers are elevated, lifestyle changes and medical interventions can help lower your risk. To dive deeper into your specific risk for heart disease and get personalized recommendations, take our heart risk quiz today. It’s a quick and easy way to better understand your heart health and learn what steps you can take to protect it for the future.