Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood and cells. It is helpful in the right amounts. Your body uses it to form cell walls and produce vitamin D. But having too much of it can be harmful.

Cholesterol is a type of fat and can’t dissolve in the blood. It is carried by lipoproteins that are often called “good” or “bad” cholesterol:

• High-density lipoprotein (HDL, or “good,” cholesterol) carries cholesterol away from your artery walls to the liver to be removed. This helps lower your overall level of cholesterol.
• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol) carries cholesterol to your artery walls. This is bad because it can cause a fatty lining to form along the insides of your artery walls. This makes the arteries narrower and harder. If an artery to the heart becomes blocked off, it can cause a heart attack.

Eating too many foods that are high in saturated fat can cause your liver to create extra blood cholesterol. To help lower your cholesterol, cut down on foods high in saturated fat. This includes fried foods, red meat and processed meats, such as cold cuts and hot dogs.

If you have CAD, your physician will pay close attention to the levels of HDL and LDL in your blood. Your physician may put you on medication to lower your cholesterol. Follow your physician’s directions carefully, or the medication may not work as well.

Know Your Numbers
If you have CAD, these tests can help you manage the condition.

Blood pressure check. The American Heart Association recommends blood pressure of lower than 140/90 mm Hg for people who have CAD. You should have a blood pressure check every time you visit your physician.

Lipid profile. A lipid profile measures the amount of certain fats and cholesterol in your blood. High lipid levels can cause a heart condition to worsen. You should have a lipid profile at least once a year. For people with CAD, the level of LDL, or “bad,” cholesterol should be lower than 100 mg/dl, and triglycerides (also “bad”) should be lower than 150 mg/dl. A HDL cholesterol level of 60 mg/dl or higher may help protect against heart disease. Total cholesterol level should be lower than 200 mg/dl.