Cholesterol has been linked for quite some time to dangerous health conditions ranging from heart disease to stroke. With more and more Americans battling obesity, the number of us with high cholesterol is also on the rise.
Surprisingly, though, many with high cholesterol or the potential for heart disease do not take the time to have their cholesterol checked regularly.
A recent article from the Associated Press reported that only about half of the people in our country with problematic cholesterollevels have taken the time to get treatment. What is more alarming, though, is that of thosewho have sought treatment, many arent making the necessary lifestyle changes to correct their condition opting instead to just rely on medications.
Dr. Valentin Fuster is the head of New York City's Mount Sinai Heart Center and has served as president of the American Heart Association in the past. The recent findings come as no surprise toFuster.
Fuster says that many patients stick to their medication dosage for about six months, but then tend to become more erratic in taking their medications as prescribed.
"These people need very strict follow-up, or sooner or later things fall apart." Fuster added.
If you have high cholesterol or simply want to keep your cholesterol in check, a number of foods can be used to help maintain a healthy cholesterol level in your body.
"Good-fat"fish like salmon, as well as walnuts, oatmeal and high fiber cereals, are all effective for helping you to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. Ideally, if you suffer from high cholesterol, you should consult your primary care physician and approach the problem with medication and a revised diet.
