Cholesterol and Heart Health Care in Dallas | Dr. McElya

Love Your Heart This Valentine’s Day: Why Cholesterol Matters More Than You Think

Valentine’s Day is often about celebrating the people you love, but it is also a meaningful reminder to care for your heart. Heart health is shaped by daily habits, preventive care, and markers like cholesterol that quietly influence long-term wellness.

Cholesterol plays an important role in cardiovascular health. While the body needs some cholesterol to function, imbalance over time can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Because high cholesterol rarely causes symptoms, many adults are unaware of their numbers.

How Does Cholesterol Affect Heart Health?

Cholesterol moves through the bloodstream attached to proteins called lipoproteins. The two types most often discussed, LDL and HDL, affect the heart in very different ways.

LDL cholesterol, often called “bad” cholesterol, can build up along artery walls over time. This buildup may narrow arteries and limit blood flow, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

HDL cholesterol, known as “good” cholesterol, helps clear excess cholesterol from the bloodstream by carrying it to the liver for processing. Higher HDL levels are linked to better heart protection.

An imbalance between LDL and HDL can develop gradually and is often influenced by:

• Diet and nutrition choices
• Activity level and movement habits
• Genetics and family history
• Stress and overall health factors

Because these changes usually happen without symptoms, regular cholesterol screening is important even for adults who feel well.

As Dr. McElya explains, “Most people are surprised to learn their cholesterol is off because they feel fine. Knowing your numbers early gives you the chance to protect your heart before problems start.”

How Age, Hormones, and Stress Influence Cholesterol

Cholesterol is influenced by more than just what you eat. As we get older, natural changes in metabolism and hormones can affect how the body handles cholesterol. Ongoing stress can also play a role by increasing inflammation and cholesterol production over time. Sleep quality, medications, and underlying health conditions matter too, which is why cholesterol levels can shift even when healthy habits stay the same.

What Daily Habits Support Healthy Cholesterol Levels?

Heart health is built through consistent, realistic habits rather than quick fixes. Small changes made over time can have a meaningful impact on cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular risk.

Heart-smart habits that support healthy cholesterol include:

• Eating more fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods
• Choosing healthy fats such as avocado, nuts, olive oil, and fatty fish
• Limiting processed foods, excess sugar, and refined carbohydrates
• Staying physically active with regular movement most days of the week

Physical activity helps raise HDL cholesterol while supporting circulation, weight balance, and blood pressure. Nutrition choices influence how much cholesterol the body produces and absorbs. Together, these habits create a strong foundation for heart health.

It is also important to recognize that genetics and medical history play a role. Some adults maintain healthy habits and still have elevated cholesterol, which is why regular monitoring is essential.

Regular Cholesterol Checks as Preventive Care

High cholesterol usually does not come with warning signs, which is why regular screening matters. Knowing your numbers gives you and your provider a clearer picture of heart health and allows small concerns to be addressed before they turn into bigger problems. At Neighborhood Medical Center, Dr. McElya looks at cholesterol results alongside lifestyle habits, family history, and long-term health goals to create a plan that feels realistic, personal, and easy to maintain..

A Valentine’s Day Gift That Lasts All Year

Caring for your heart is one of the most meaningful ways to invest in your future. Valentine’s Day offers a simple reminder that heart health deserves attention long before problems arise. Understanding your cholesterol levels and taking proactive steps now can support energy, confidence, and longevity for years to come.

If it has been a while since your last cholesterol check, or if you are unsure where your numbers stand, preventive care can provide clarity and peace of mind.

To schedule a cholesterol screening or preventive care visit, book an appointment with Dr. McElya at Neighborhood Medical Center in Dallas today.