You hear a lot about your cholesterol these days – especially what foods can lower it.
Eat more oatmeal and less red meat, more nuts, and less sugar, etc., but, when you’re told your cholesterol number, how do you know what it means?
Let’s start with the basics.
Cholesterol is found in all the cells in your body and your body produces all the cholesterol you need, but you can also get cholesterol from the food you eat.
There are 2 types of cholesterol: HDL and LDL.
What’s Good?
HDL cholesterol is your “good” cholesterol. You should strive to have your HDL cholesterol above 60.
> 60 Good
< 40 Bad
That makes sense, right? You want a higher level of good cholesterol than you do bad cholesterol.
What’s Bad??LDL cholesterol is considered your bad cholesterol and you should strive to have this number below 100.
< 100 Optimal
100 – 129 Above Optimal
130 – 159 Borderline High
160 – 189 High
> 190 Very high
Now I know what the numbers mean, but what do I do about it?
If your cholesterol numbers fall within the optimal range, then keep up the good work! Those numbers show you are living a healthy lifestyle.
If your cholesterol numbers are outside of the normal range, however, you are at an elevated risk for heart problems and should see a doctor to help manage it. Here are a few tips to lower it:
• Schedule an appointment with a primary care provider. High cholesterol requires medical diagnosis and can be treated by medication. If you are diagnosed with high cholesterol and need additional medical attention, your primary care provider will connect you with a cardiologist. They will work together to provide you with a comprehensive treatment plan.
• Exercise. It’s recommended to exercise 30 minutes a day for 5 days a week.
• Lose weight. If you are overweight or obese, lose at least 5 percent of body fat.
• Change what you eat. Avoid foods that raise cholesterol like fatty, fried, greasy food. Add foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans to lower cholesterol.
High cholesterol does not have any symptoms, so don’t wait to find out what your numbers are. Visit iwantsentaramedicalgroup.com to find a primary care provider.
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Inspired by the devastating wildfires in California that have affected over 38,600 acres and led to evacuation orders for 88,000 residents as of Jan. 15, we reached out to Stafford County’s Fire and Rescue team to explore how they get ready for wildfires in this area.
A wildfire outbreak began in California on January 7, 2025 and continues as of Jan., 23. Over 47,000 acres have burned, with a new fire starting yesterday in Hughes County. Over 16,000 structures have burned due to wildfires in 2025.
Katie Brady, county fire department spokeswoman and Fire Life Safety Manager, clarified that “wildfire” is a broad blanket term. Stafford is likelier to experience “brush fires” than quick-moving wildfires that cause widespread destruction like California’s. Brushfires can range in size from a few feet to several acres and can be precursors to a larger wildfire capable of causing significant damage. Brushfires are more common when the area experiences drought conditions, like in 2024.
The disciplinary action taken against Patriot High School Principal Michael Bishop earlier this month is the latest chapter in a turbulent tenure at the school, Insidenova.com reports.
Bishop was placed on involuntary leave, the school announced Jan. 9.
The school division did not provide further details upon request from InsideNoVa because it is a “personnel matter,” said Diana Gulotta, the school system’s director of communications.
Fredericksburg police arrested Daquan Warren, 24, for a December 2024 shooting and investigated a January 20 shots fired and burglary incident on Townsend Boulevard. Stafford County saw assaults at Chatham Heights Road and North Stafford High School, a break-in on Ripley Road, and larcenies at Walmart, Buffalo Wild Wings, and an ABC store. In Prince William County, a strong-arm robbery on Balls Ford Road resulted in the arrest of Jose Fernando Martinez-Gonzalez. Authorities urge public assistance with investigations and provide tips hotlines for each jurisdiction.
Looking for a furry companion to brighten your days? Meet Harley, a 6 ½-year-old neutered male Domestic with short hair and a loving personality. Harley is ready to find his forever home and is available for adoption now.
Harley is waiting for you at the Spotsylvania County Animal Shelter. This local shelter is dedicated to finding loving homes for animals in need.
Travel to French soil and join us for a night filled with two of the most beloved French traditions—no plane ticket required! ?
On January 25th, we invite you to experience the magic of Galette des Rois, a 700-year-old tradition celebrated across France throughout the entire month of January (and even beyond!). This sweet, almond-filled puff pastry topped with a golden crown isn’t just a treat—it’s a celebration! The lucky person who finds the fève (a porcelain charm hidden in one of the slices) becomes the King or Queen for the Day, and don’t worry—there will be plenty of royalty to go around! ??
But that’s not all! In France, Les Voeux (New Year’s wishes) continue throughout January, often accompanied by Champagne and good cheer. We’re bringing that festive spirit to you, with a lively evening packed with French food, wine, and music.
What’s in store:
Experience the passion and drama of Puccini’s “The Girl from the Golden West”.
Featuring special guest musicians from The Chesapeake Youth Orchestra,
this performance brings Puccini’s masterpiece to life with an extraordinary cast.
