OTHER RISK FACTORS

Besides cholesterol, there are other risk factors that can be a problem for heart health.






Blood Pressure

An above optimal level of blood pressure can not be felt. Many people are not aware that they have blood pressure above the recommended level and live with an increased risk.

Blood Sugar

If the sugar level in the blood is constantly above normal and cannot be absorbed by the body cells, it causes a risk to heart health by narrowing the blood vessels, and it has other harmful effects on the body.

Smoking

The substances in tobacco cause the blood to carry less oxygen and the blood vessels to become narrow. The result is an increase in blood pressure.

Weight and Shape

An increase in body weight usually increases blood cholesterol, blood pressure and generally the risk of negative effects on heart health. The body shape is also important: an "apple" body shape carries a higher risk than a "pear" body shape. Therefore, measuring the waistline is also an indicator for heart health.

Physical Activity

Besides keeping the body weight in balance, physical activity can also lower blood pressure and increase overall health and wellbeing.

State of mind

Only identified recently as a risk factor, people suffering from depression are twice as likely to have issues with heart health.
If you have any concerns about your cholesterol level or any aspect of your heart health, your health care professional should always be your first point of contact.