And why certain lifestyle choices may have even more impact than the food you eat.

Throughout the United States, high cholesterol is a common issue.

Cholesterol is awaxy substancethat circulates in your blood.

Various nutrition labels for a variety of packaged food products

It isnt necessarily dangerous on its own we need cholesterol to help usbuild cells and make hormones.

But too much of it can cause problems.

Then that can create situations such as heart attacks and strokes and kidney dysfunction, Avenatti said.

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If your cholesterol is high, you may be prescribed medication or lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise.

One of the most natural changes starts with food.

That gives you the healthy fat to go along with the dairy protein, Auguste said.

Meat department in a supermarket

Skin on meat

Saturated fat is also high in meat skins, according to Auguste.

Whats more, Auguste noted, its important to look for skinless ground meats as well.

Instead, highly processed foods, such as smoked sausage and chips, should give you pause.

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If my patients are craving that meaty feeling, just go for the steak by all means.

We like to talk more about patterns just because no food is absolutely damaging.

I think eating in moderation … is still the key, she said.

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What you eat the majority of the time is more important than a one-off burger or steak.

But for people with high triglycerides, dietary choices are extra important.

High triglycerides can also be impacted by refined carbohydrates, Auguste added.

Deep frying doughnut machine close up

For some people, medication may also be necessary to lower cholesterol.

Avenatti recommends the American Heart AssociationsLifes Essential 8guidelines to help stay on top of your cardiovascular health.

This post was previously published onHuffPost.

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