Diet and Exercise

Achieving healthy cholesterol levels

For people with borderline/high cholesterol levels, lifestyle changes may be an effective way to reduce these levels and improve the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol.

Diet – Research has shown that it is possible to reduce the level of cholesterol in blood by between 5% and 10% just by eating healthily. Cholesterol is not found in large amounts in many foods, except in eggs and in offal such as liver and kidneys. However, limiting the amount of saturated fats is particularly effective in reducing cholesterol. This should also be combined with the recommended five portions of fruit and vegetables each day. Limiting salt intake is also recommended as a high intake can lead to high blood pressure, which is also a risk factor for atherosclerosis.

Exercise – Engaging in regular physical activity increases the amount of HDL cholesterol in the blood, while reducing the amount of LDL cholesterol. It also promotes weight loss and weight control while increasing the effectiveness of the body’s blood circulation system.  However, in some people, such as those with very high cholesterol levels and those with familial hypercholesterolaemia, simple lifestyle changes may not be enough to reduce cholesterol levels and doctors may also recommend certain medications, such as cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins, to achieve cholesterol targets.

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