High cholesterol can sneak up on you. No matter what your body type, if you haven't been eating well, or if the genetics are not in your favor, your cholesterol could be at dangerously high levels.
Many people make assumptions about what they should and shouldn't eat, or about how they should go about treating high cholesterol. Take this Cholesterol Myths quiz to start dispelling those assumptions and learning the facts.
There is only one type of cholesterol, and you just need to lower its level to be healthy.
False.
There are two kinds of cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (also called LDL or "bad" cholesterol), and high-density lipoprotein (also called HDL or "good" cholesterol). When battling high cholesterol, you need to be primarily concerned with lowering your LDL score.
Genetics does not matter when it comes to your cholesterol levels. It's all about your lifestyle.
Heredity CAN affect your cholesterol level, especially your levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol.
In order to keep your cholesterol levels low and maintain good health, you should avoid all fats.
Not all fats are created equal! Omega-3 fatty acids are good for you, and unsaturated fats like those found in vegetable oils are healthy. It's saturated fat and trans fat that you really need to watch out for.
When exercise and diet are not enough to lower cholesterol levels, doctors often prescribe a class of drugs called statins.
True.
Statins are now commonly prescribed to help lower cholesterol. Some common brand name statins include Zocor, Lescol, Lipitor, Pravachol, Mevacor and Crestor.
Drinking a glass of wine with dinner can raise your "good" cholesterol levels.
Alcohol abuse is very bad for your heart, but moderate drinking can actually raise your "good" cholesterol levels.
Smoking is very bad for your respiratory system, but it doesn't affect your cholesterol levels.
Smoking DOES affect your cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association, smoking can lower your HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
Fiber isn't just good for your digestive system -- it can also help to lower your cholesterol.
High-fiber foods like oats, whole grains and beans are proven to lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
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