What are blood lipids?
Lipids are fatty substances in the blood. The blood lipids include cholesterol and triglycerides. Lipids carry some vitamins and are a source of energy. Some lipids come from the foods we eat. Some are made by the body itself. Why are high blood lipids important? High levels of blood lipids increase the risk of having heart disease and stroke. Several other factors also increase your risk for heart disease: smoking high blood pressure diabetes a history of heart disease in close family members obesity being older. If you are at risk for heart disease, have your blood lipid levels measured. Lowering blood lipid levels has been shown to lower the risk of heart disease. How can I lower my blood lipids if they are too high? Diet can help to lower your blood lipid levels. Most of the lipids in your blood are made by your liver from the fats, carbohydrates, and proteins you eat. Eating the right amounts of carbohydrates, fat, and proteins helps your body keep normal blood lipid levels. Your
