Is Gender a Factor in Cholesterol?
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Facts
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Your blood cholesterol level starts increasing during your 20s and then tapers off after the age of 65, according to Discovery Health.
Types
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High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as "good" cholesterol, while low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is known as "bad" cholesterol. Ideally, your total cholesterol level should reflect high levels of HDL and low levels of LDL cholesterol.
Men
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Men are predisposed to high total blood cholesterol levels, according to Discovery Health. In fact, the American Heart Association reports that men are at a greater risk of a fatal heart attack than women are.
Women
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Women have naturally high levels of HDL cholesterol. However, Discovery Health reports that HDL levels decrease and LDL levels increase once you hit menopause.
Prevention/Solution
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There are certain lifestyle changes you can make to reduce cholesterol, including regular exercise, a healthy diet and not smoking. Men should be especially conscious of this before the age of 45 and women should take special care after menopause.
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