Vanilla and Chocolate. Coke and Pepsi. LDL and HDL. Many things come in two major varieties, and cholesterol is no exception. But while flavor is a matter of personal preference, cholesterol is universally accepted to come in “good” and “bad” varieties. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the “bad” cholesterol; having high LDL levels is predictive of higher risk of cardiovascular disease. High-density lipoprotein (HDL), on the other hand, is “good” cholesterol, and having higher levels of HDL is thought to prevent cardiovascular disease.
However, new research suggests that it may be possible to have too much of a “good” thing. In a study published in the European Heart Journal, Danish researchers followed the LDL and HDL levels of 116,000 study participants for an average of six years, and found that extremely high levels of HDL were associated with higher risk of death. And they didn’t just mean death from cardiovascular disease. Extremely high levels of HDL were associated with higher risk of death from all causes.
What is considered an “extremely high” level of HDL? HDL levels of 116 mg/dL in men and 135 mg/dL in women were associated with a higher chance of early death than in men or women who had “normal” levels.
The level of HDL associated with the lowest mortality: 73 mg/dL in men and 93 mg/dL in women.
So, by all means, do what you can to raise your HDL. But don’t get too much of a good thing.
At the Regency Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers, we offer the very best of care in a patient-centered environment. We are proud that our award winning state-of-the-art kitchen and elegantly decorated dining rooms exceeds the latest Department of Health and Advisory Standards for food quality, preparation, variety and taste. Our Food Service Director, Dietician and dietary staff serve varied, well-balanced meals, individually tailored to the clinical needs and personal preferences of each resident. Residents may participate in our menu planning by meeting with the Food Service Director to plan their own “Resident Choice” menus.
Our gourmet delicious meals are served restaurant style and visitors always dine free of charge. Our kitchen staff is happy to cater free birthday parties, barbeques and special events. Our home is your home… your friends and family are always welcomed.
Our 25 years of excellent care have led to us being awarded a Best Nursing Homes award by US News & World Today, a 5-Star rating by USA Today, and an A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau, among many other awards.
Contact us by clicking here to see which of our three facilities will best meet your needs or the needs of your loved one.
