Cholesterol is an essential type of fat that is carried in our blood.  All cells in our body require cholesterol for many processes, such as hormone production and helping our body use Vitamin D. 

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Our body generally makes all the cholesterol we need, thus there’s no need to eat foods high in cholesterol.  In fact, having too much cholesterol in our blood stream puts us at higher risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.  

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Screen for risk of developing heart disease

 

We have partnered with Diabetes Victoria in rolling-out the Life! Program in our participating Victorian pharmacies.

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The Life! Program is a free lifestyle modification program that helps participants reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes as well as heart disease. Participants can choose from a group course or a telephone health coaching service and learn more about nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress and managing lapses.

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Ask your local Advantage Pharmacy now, to screen for your risk of developing heart disease and be referred to the Life! Program to reduce your risks now.

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Check your Cholesterol Levels

 

Checking your cholesterol levels are important, as cholesterol can build up in blood vessels and block the flow of blood. When checking your cholesterol levels, it is important to understand the different classifications.

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LDLs are known as ‘bad’ cholesterol.  LDLs carry cholesterol to body tissues that require it.  However, high levels of LDLs in our body could block the flow of blood.

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HDLs are known as ‘good’ cholesterol.  HDLs carry cholesterol from our body tissues to the liver, where cholesterol can be removed from our blood.

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Triglyceride are a type of fat found in our blood which gets carried to our body tissues and gets stored for energy.

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Our Advantage Pharmacists are able to provide assistance in checking your cholesterol levels as well as provide advice on how to maintain healthy levels of cholesterol.

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Medications & Supplements

 

If your cholesterol or triglyceride levels remain high, despite a healthy diet and lifestyle adjustments, your Doctor may prescribe you a cholesterol-lowering medication. Whilst these medications work very well in lowering your cholesterol levels, they may also deplete some very important enzymes in the body. Ask your local Advantage Pharmacists on which supplements are suitable to take, to help correct the deficiency, help to boost your energy levels, and decrease muscle pain that may be associated with cholesterol-lowering medication.

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Additionally, there are supplements that have been shown to help reduce the risk of heart disease and improve cholesterol levels. Ask your local Advantage Pharmacists on which supplements are suitable to take, to ensure help improve the good/bad cholesterol ratio.

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