Get the complete picture on cholesterol and triglycerides.
Let’s begin with the facts. Fats within the body are often referred to as lipids. Lipids come from two sources: externally – from the foods you eat, and internally – formed in the body (primarily the liver). There are two major classifications of fats: cholesterol and triglycerides. Despite the negative reputation, fats are an essential source of fuel for the body’s metabolic processes and are necessary for many body functions.
Total cholesterol is a measure of all the fats (lipids) in your bloodstream. The three main categories of lipids are:
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Low-density lipoproteins (“bad cholesterol”) build up in arteries to form plaque, which can restrict blood flow to your heart, brain,and other organs. |
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High-density lipoproteins (“good cholesterol”) carry cholesterol from the blood vessels to the liver, where the body can eliminate it. |
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Triglycerides (“the other bad lipid”) are a form of lipid that is produced in the liver and also comes from the foods you eat. |
Why it's important for you to watch your cholesterol and triglycerides.
Even though cholesterol and triglycerides provide certain benefits, too much in your blood could build up within the walls of your arteries, forming plaque and restricting blood flow. This condition can lead to heart disease. The good news is that you can take steps to bring your cholesterol and triglycerides in line.
As you can see, if you're not monitoring triglycerides (TG), (“the other bad lipid”) along with LDL and HDL, you're not getting the complete picture on your total cholesterol.
Want to know more? Click to find out more about LDL, HDL, and/or TG.
TriCor can help lower triglyceride levels, increase HDL (good cholesterol), and lower LDL (bad cholesterol) depending on a person's specific cholesterol condition.
For more information on TriCor, click here.
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