Cholesterol Testing

While it often gets a bad rap, cholesterol is essential for our bodies to function. It is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in all cells of the body. Our body needs cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest foods.

It’s the type of cholesterol in your body that is important – there is ‘good’ and ‘bad’ cholesterol.If you have elevated triglycerides and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), you’re at greater risk of heart disease and strokes.

We offer a simple blood test that measures your total cholesterol. No appointments are required, pop in to see one of our friendly pharmacists today. They will be able to tell how your levels are tracking and provide further advice, such as referring you to a GP, if your levels are outside normal ranges.

Does your cholesterol need improving?

Maintaining a good cholesterol profile is key to good health. Getting a cholesterol-screening test is the first step in reducing your risk of heart disease and strokes. If your cholesterol levels need improving, there are numerous simple lifestyle measures you can make:

• Reduce the amount of processed foods in your diet, particularly those high in sugar, partially hydrogenated fats and trans-fats
• Eat more fibre-rich foods
• Increase fruit your fruit and vegetable intake
• Lose excess weight, especially around the tummy
• Quit smoking
• Maintain an active lifestyle, aiming for 30 minutes or more of exercise daily
• Reduce alcohol consumption