Veterans: Ready for your cholesterol quiz?

1. Which is the good cholesterol: LDL or HDL?
2. Can you have too much cholesterol and feel just fine?
3. Which should you avoid: trans fat or saturated fat?
4. Should you eat more vegetables or more whole grains?

Sorry. No answers to the quiz on this page but you will find the answers here.

And that’s the point – this is important enough to your health that you should look for – and know – the answers to these questions. They could save your life.

On that page, you will find out what you can do to prevent or control high cholesterol.

And some very important facts, like this:

Cholesterol is a fat-like material that provides structure for your body’s cells. Your liver makes most of the cholesterol your body needs, but you also get some from the foods you eat.

Too much cholesterol can cause a sticky substance (plaque) to build up in your blood vessels. This plaque can block blood vessels and cause heart attacks and strokes.

I feel fine…

OK, here’s the answer to question number two:

Most people with high cholesterol feel healthy and don’t have symptoms. The only way to know if you have high cholesterol is to have your cholesterol checked.

When did you have your last physical?

What else can you do?

Always ask your provider what your cholesterol numbers are and write them down. Keep track with the log at the MyHealtheVet website: http://www.myhealth.va.gov.

Your provider may prescribe medicine to help lower your cholesterol.

• Take your medicine every day, or as directed by your provider.
• If your cholesterol numbers get lower, it’s because your medicine is working. Don’t stop it or take a lower dose unless your provider says you should.

Here are some questions to ask your provider:

• Is my cholesterol under good control?
• When should I have my cholesterol next checked?
• What is a healthy weight for me?
• Is it safe for me to start doing regular physical activity?

For more information, please contact your local VA Medical Center or Health Clinic.

https://www.prevention.va.gov/Preventing_Diseases/High_Cholesterol.asp

Follow a healthy eating plan.

• Read food labels and limit foods high in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.
• Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy foods, and whole grains.
• Ask to see a registered dietitian if you need help with a plan.

Be physically active.

• “Physical activity” includes any activity that raises your heart rate, such as brisk walking, working in the house or yard, or playing sports.
• Do activity for 10 minutes or more at a time. Aim for at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of activity each week.

Achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

If you are overweight, ask your provider for help with an eating and physical activity plan to lose weight