Lowering High Blood Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs in small amounts to build cells and make certain hormones. But too much of the wrong kind of cholesterol in your blood raises the risk of heart disease and stroke. Like high blood pressure, high cholesterol usually causes no symptoms — so a simple blood test is the only way to know your levels.
"Good" and "Bad" Cholesterol
Cholesterol travels through the blood attached to proteins, forming lipoproteins. Two kinds matter most:
- LDL (low-density lipoprotein) — often called "bad" cholesterol. High LDL leads to a buildup of plaque in the arteries.
- HDL (high-density lipoprotein) — often called "good" cholesterol. HDL helps carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver.
A standard cholesterol test, sometimes called a lipid panel, also measures triglycerides, another type of blood fat.
Why High Cholesterol Matters
When too much LDL cholesterol circulates in the blood, it can slowly build up in the walls of the arteries that feed the heart and brain. These deposits, called plaque, narrow and stiffen the arteries — a process known as atherosclerosis. Over time this can reduce blood flow and lead to a heart attack or stroke.
What Affects Your Cholesterol
- Diet — saturated and trans fats tend to raise LDL.
- Weight — excess weight tends to raise LDL and lower HDL.
- Physical activity — regular exercise can improve cholesterol levels.
- Family history and age — genetics play a role, and levels often rise with age.
- Tobacco use — smoking lowers HDL.
How to Lower Your Cholesterol
Heart-healthy habits are the foundation of cholesterol control, and a doctor may also prescribe medication:
- Choose foods low in saturated and trans fat; favor vegetables, fruit, whole grains and sources of dietary fiber.
- Be physically active most days of the week.
- Maintain a healthy weight — see Losing Weight Safely.
- Avoid tobacco.
- Follow your healthcare provider's advice on testing and any medication.
Authoritative Resources
For more information, see the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, the CDC's cholesterol resources, and the American Heart Association.
Related reading: Understanding High Blood Pressure, Eating for a Healthy Heart, and Dietary Fiber and Why It Matters. Return to the health article index.