High Cholesterol Treatment in Mount Kisco, NY
High cholesterol and excess weight often go hand in hand, quietly increasing your risk of heart disease. At Briones Weight Loss Center, Dr. Maria Briones helps Westchester County patients improve their cholesterol through lab testing, personalized nutrition, and physician-supervised weight loss.
What Is High Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body needs to build cells and make hormones. Problems arise when levels of LDL, often called bad cholesterol, or triglycerides become too high, or when HDL, the good cholesterol, is too low. Excess cholesterol can build up as plaque in the arteries, narrowing them and raising the risk of heart attack and stroke. High cholesterol rarely causes symptoms, so a simple blood test is the only way to know your numbers.
The Connection Between Weight and Cholesterol
Carrying extra weight, especially around the midsection, tends to raise LDL and triglycerides while lowering HDL. Diets high in refined carbohydrates and saturated fats, inactivity, insulin resistance, and hormonal shifts during menopause can all make cholesterol worse. Losing weight often improves every part of your lipid panel.
Risk Factors for High Cholesterol
- Excess weight or obesity
- A diet high in processed foods, fried foods, and sugar
- Lack of regular physical activity
- Smoking
- Family history of high cholesterol or early heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure
Cholesterol Management at Briones Weight Loss Center
Dr. Maria Briones evaluates cholesterol as part of a complete picture of your heart and metabolic health. Through our internal medicine and medical weight loss services, your care may include:
- A full lipid panel along with blood sugar, thyroid, and hormone testing
- Assessment of your overall cardiovascular risk
- Custom nutrition planning that emphasizes fiber, healthy fats, and lean proteins
- Supplements that may support healthy lipid levels
- A personalized weight loss program with regular progress visits
- Medication management when lifestyle changes alone are not enough
Follow-up labs let Dr. Briones measure your progress and adjust your plan. Many patients see improvements in cholesterol within a few months of steady weight loss, along with better energy and lower blood pressure. Learn how to prepare for your visit on our new patients page.
High Cholesterol FAQs
What are healthy cholesterol levels?
For most adults, a total cholesterol under 200 mg/dL, LDL under 100 mg/dL, HDL of 40 mg/dL or higher for men and 50 mg/dL or higher for women, and triglycerides under 150 mg/dL are considered desirable.
Can weight loss lower cholesterol?
Yes. Losing weight often lowers LDL and triglycerides and can raise HDL, improving your overall heart health.
Does high cholesterol cause symptoms?
High cholesterol usually has no symptoms. A blood test is the only reliable way to check your levels.
How often should I have my cholesterol checked?
Most adults should be checked every four to six years, and more often if you have risk factors or are being treated.
Will I need cholesterol medication?
Not always. Many patients improve with weight loss and nutrition changes. Dr. Briones will recommend medication only when it is needed for your risk level.
Is cholesterol testing covered by insurance?
Lab work through our internal medicine services is often covered. See our insurance page or call (914) 241-6249.
How do I schedule a cholesterol evaluation?
Call Briones Weight Loss Center at (914) 241-6249 or request an appointment online.
Know Your Numbers and Improve Them
A healthier heart starts with a plan. Call Briones Weight Loss Center at (914) 241-6249 or request an appointment online to have your cholesterol evaluated.