216.4
I got a call from my doctor's office late yesterday to let me know the results of the (fasting) labwork for which blood was drawn at my annual physical on Monday. On a positive note, my fasting glucose and blood chemistries, thyroid panel, and complete blood count were all normal. So I have no thyroid problems, no diabetes or pre-diabetes, no liver or kidney function problems, and no anemia.
On the not-so-positive side, my lipid panel showed the following:
- Total cholesterol: 233 (should be less than 200)
- LDL: 171 (should be less than 130)
- HDL: 35 (should be more than 45)
- Triglycerides: 163 (should be less than 150)
Compared to
last year's numbers, there really isn't a HUGE difference. My total cholesterol and triglycerides are slightly lower, but my LDL is higher and my HDL is slightly down. These are still numbers that
double my risk of cardiac disease.
My doctor told me to "maintain" my ideal body weight, exercise 5-6 days a week, and eat healthfully. (Hmm, where have I heard that before?) He also told me that if my numbers remain high, I will eventually have to go on a statin to lower them. However, I can't take statins while there is a chance I may become pregnant, so unless I go on birth control (not going to happen) or reach menopause (not for a few more years, I hope), that option is tabled for now.
I have my gym bag packed and have told MM that I will meet him there at 6:15.