It is common knowledge that there is “good” cholesterol and “bad” cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is the good kind, and having high HDL levels is considered protective against cardiovascular disease. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the bad kind, and is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
However recent research has cast doubt on just how “good” HDL really is, particularly for older women. One study, published in the Journal of Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, suggests that for certain groups of postmenopausal women, HDL may not be so good, after all.
The study analyzed the data of over 1000 women, ages 45-84, and found that high HDL actually raised the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) in women ten or more years post-menopause, as well as in women who were older at the time of menopause.
That’s not to say that HDL is not at all protective. Certain types of HDL cholesterol were found to be protective against atherosclerosis in every age group, and regardless of the subject’s age at menopause. High levels of small-sized HDL particles were protective, whereas large-sized HDL particles were associated with increased risk. The research suggests that rather than looking at total HDL in post-menopausal women, healthcare practitioners may need to scrutinize the type of HDL in order to assess the risk of heart disease.
At the Regency Nursing and Rehabilitation Centers, we offer the very best of care in a patient-centered environment. And that includes varied, well-balanced meals that support our residents’ physical and mental health.
Our Food Service Director, Dietician and dietary staff tailor gourmet meals 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.
Family and friends play an important role in mental health, and we encourage this healthy socialization by allowing our residents’ visitors to always join us free of charge. Is there a birthday or other event? Our kitchen staff is happy to cater free birthday parties, barbeques and other special events.
We are proud that our award-winning, state-of-the-art kitchen and elegantly decorated dining rooms exceed the latest Department of Health and Advisory Standards for food quality, preparation, variety and, of course, taste.
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.
