by Gayle Donahue, MSN, RN
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have named September as National Cholesterol Education Month.
Gayle Donahue, MSN, RN
In past months, we have talked about the importance of nutrition and life style choices. Cholesterol levels are an excellent example of how our choices of food and activity can affect our long term health and wellbeing.
Our body does need cholesterol and God did design our body to make cholesterol. The problem is when our level is too high there is a buildup on the walls of our circulatory system causing constriction resulting in high blood pressure and possible blockage.
Because cholesterol is made in the liver you can decrease your numbers by monitoring food choices that originate from an animal with a liver for processing. To lower cholesterol, decrease red and white meat, butter, crackers, cookies, etc.
Consider adding more fiber, particularly soluble fiber (oats, oranges, pears, brussels sprouts, carrots to name a few). The standard recommendation of 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week will also help to decrease cholesterol levels.
Children through older adults should have their cholesterol levels and profile checked periodically depending upon age, health, and family history. To learn more about cholesterol visit the National Heart, Blood and Lung Institute.
Conversations of Health returns on Sunday, September 22, at 11:10am in the church parlor. Lynn Gorton will be sharing the power point presentation “Happiness is a Choice” detailing the emotional impact of heart and lung disease.
Walking with the Apostle Paul continues. Have you checked the Health Ministry bulletin board in the main entrance? Our team of walkers are making great strides traveling Paul’s second missionary journey. You are welcome to join us at any time. We are also looking for swimmers and boaters to track a few miles for Paul’s travel by water. Packets are on the bulletin board and in the Church Office.
Blessings, Gayle