This month we recognize National Cholesterol Education Month and gear up for fall fitness. Enjoy!

National Cholesterol Education Month
September is National Cholesterol Education Month, a good time to get your blood cholesterol checked and take steps to lower it if it is high. More than 102 million American adults have high cholesterol. Here is some important information from the CDC on cholesterol and what you can do to stay healthy.

What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your body and many foods. Your body needs cholesterol to function normally. Too much cholesterol can build up causing narrowing of your arteries, putting you at risk for heart disease and stroke. 

How do you know if your cholesterol is high?
High cholesterol usually doesn't have any symptoms, but doctors can do a simple blood test to check your levels. High cholesterol can be controlled through lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, or if that is not enough, through medications. High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.

How often should you have your cholesterol checked?
The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP)recommends that adults aged 20 years or older have their cholesterol checked every 5 years.

 If I have high cholesterol, what can I do to lower it?

• Eat low-fat, high-fiber food such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• For adults, getting at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate or 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous physical activity a week.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Don't smoke or quit if you do smoke.
• Take medications prescribed by your doctor.

Fall Exercise
Fall is the perfect time to recommit to exercise and fitness. Here are some tips to get you started!

• As the weather cools, we may be tempted to drink less water, but hydration is important year round. Make sure you are drinking water before, during and after your workout. For exercise lasting an hour or more, consider a low calorie sports drink.
• It can be cooler in the mornings and evenings when many people exercise, especially as it gets closer to winter. Remember to check the weather and dress appropriately.
• The days are shorter in the fall, so make sure you can be seen if you are exercising outside in the early morning or late evening. Wear light, reflective clothing or take your workout indoors at a gym.
• The new season is the great time to take up a new physical activity, such as kickboxing, zumba or dancing.
• Fall often means the start of the season for our favorite TV shows. Use the commercial breaks to do sit-ups, push-ups, lunges and any other at home exercise you enjoy.
• It can't be said enough: Look for ways to sneak exercise into everyday tasks. Take the stairs, park further away, and walk during your lunch break. It all adds up.

Support Group
Who can come?
-Anyone interested in learning about or having weight loss surgery
-Patients of South Texas Surgeons, P.A.
-Supporters of someone who is interested in or already had weight loss surgery

3rd Thursday of every month from 6:30-7:30pm

Nix Medical Center
500 Navarro St.
Walgreen's Building, 2nd Floor - Classroom A & B