High Cholesterol: What the Numbers Mean and How to Lower It

November 4, 2026

by admin

High cholesterol usually causes no symptoms, yet over time it can narrow the arteries and raise the risk of heart attack and stroke. A simple blood test shows your levels, and healthy lifestyle habits, with medicines when needed, can bring them down.

QUICK ANSWERGet your cholesterol checked with a blood test. Eat less saturated and trans fat, more fibre, stay active, avoid smoking and keep a healthy weight. Your doctor may also prescribe a medicine such as a statin if your risk is high.

No signs

High cholesterol often has no symptoms

< 200 mg/dL

Desirable total cholesterol level

LDL

“Bad” cholesterol: lower is better

150 min

Moderate activity per week is commonly advised

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body needs to build cells and make hormones. It travels in the blood attached to proteins. LDL cholesterol can build up in artery walls, while HDL cholesterol helps carry cholesterol away. Triglycerides are another type of blood fat that is also measured in a lipid profile.

Understanding Your Numbers

Measure	What it is	General aim
Total cholesterol	All cholesterol in the blood	Below 200 mg/dL
LDL (“bad”)	Can clog arteries	As low as advised for your risk
HDL (“good”)	Helps remove cholesterol	Higher is better
Triglycerides	Blood fats	Below 150 mg/dL

Your target depends on your age and risk factors, so your doctor will advise the right goal for you.

What Raises Your Risk?

DIETUnhealthy fatsToo much saturated and trans fat in fried and processed foods.

WEIGHTExcess weightEspecially around the waist.

MOVELow activitySitting most of the day.

SMOKESmokingIt damages blood vessels and lowers HDL.

FAMILYFamily historySome people inherit high cholesterol.

HEALTHOther conditionsDiabetes, thyroid and kidney problems can raise levels.

Lifestyle Steps That Help

Eat vegetables, fruit, oats, beans, nuts and whole grains
Choose olive oil, fish and other healthier fats
Walk or exercise most days
Quit smoking and limit alcohol

LIMIT

Fried and deep-fried foods
Fatty red and processed meats
Pastries, biscuits and packaged snacks with trans fat
Sugary drinks

See our guides on the best diet to control high cholesterol and high blood pressure and high blood pressure signs and lifestyle tips.

Cholesterol and Men’s Health

Blocked or narrowed blood vessels can also affect blood flow to other parts of the body. Read does high cholesterol cause erectile dysfunction.

Medicines for Cholesterol

If lifestyle changes are not enough, or your risk is high, your doctor may prescribe a medicine such as a statin. Take it exactly as prescribed, keep your follow-up blood tests and never stop it without medical advice.

GET EMERGENCY HELP IF

You have chest pain or pressure
You have sudden weakness, face drooping or slurred speech
You have severe shortness of breath

These can be signs of a heart attack or stroke.

Looking for heart care?

Browse our heart care category. Heart medicines must only be used as prescribed by your doctor.

Heart care

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I check my cholesterol?

Many healthy adults are tested every 4 to 6 years, and more often if they have risk factors. Your doctor will advise you.

Are eggs bad for cholesterol?

For most people, moderate egg intake is fine. Saturated and trans fats in the overall diet matter more.

Can I lower cholesterol without medicines?

Many people improve it with diet, activity and weight loss, but some need medicines as well.