How much do you know about your cholesterol?

Not all cholesterols are bad. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) harms blood vessels, while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) benefits blood vessels by removing excess cholesterol in the arteries and thus helps prevent strokes and heart attacks. Both of the following conditions increase the risks of strokes, heart disease and peripheral vascular disease. Excessively high levels of LDL-C may allow redundant cholesterol to accumulate in the artery, while extremely low levels of HDL-C fail to effectively eliminate blood cholesterol. For most people with diabetes, taking Statins (a medication to lower blood lipids) the is sufficient to control the LDL-C level. If you are advised to take Statins make sure to use them as prescribed the your doctor.