YMCA session offers cholesterol information

HARDYSTON — The Sussex County YMCA in Hamburg offered a Friday nutrition program on Oct. 5.
Wellness Director Alma Dhuyvetter discussed natural ways to control the elusive and confusing cholesterol numbers we all are concerned with because of the medical community.
According to Dhuyvetter, cholesterol is a waxy fat that is the primary source of heart disease and heart attacks.
Clarifying, LDL is bad cholesterol and should be under 200 mg. HDL or good cholesterol should range a desirable 60 mg and higher.
“Meds are used to lower cholesterol but, in reality, this is only like applying a band-aid, it’s not a cure,” declared the wellness director.
Creating change in one’s lifestyle can naturally lower bad cholesterol and heighten good cholesterol as well as lowering triglycerides.
Triglycerides are another type of fat (lipid) in the bloodstream. Normal levels should be less than 150 mgs.
Dhuyvetter stressed again that creating simple natural change in lifestyle can make a world of difference. Increasing activity and exercise can lower LDL and triglycerides, 150 minutes per week is beneficial.
“Move every hour,” offered Dhuyvetter.
Avoidance of sugars, carbohydrates and trans fats and losing weight assists in managing levels. Eating fish, nuts, Omega 3s and fiber like oatmeal and apples is beneficial.
“Fiber is the cleaning system of the body,” said Dhuyvetter.
Avoiding excess stress, getting enough sleep and even laughing can contribute to controlling one’s cholesterol numbers. She made it perfectly clear that everyone should follow their physician’s orders but nature tips can also relieve cholesterol problems.
Two more free of charge wellness meetings will be held on upcoming Fridays at the YMCA in Hamburg. Hidden Sugars in Foods will be held on November 2 from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. The December offering will be Hidden Salts in Foods to be held on December 7 from 10a.m. to 11. To register or for more information, call 973-209-9622.