1. Cholesterol Levels Slideshow Pictures
2. Lowering Cholesterol Slideshow Pictures
3. Take the Cholesterol Quiz

In this Article

• What is cholesterol?
• Why should I be concerned about cholesterol?
• What's the difference between "good" and "bad" cholesterol?
• How much cholesterol is too much?
• Can I lower my risk for heart disease if I lower my cholesterol?
• What makes my cholesterol levels go up?
• What can I do to lower my cholesterol?
• What medications are used to treat high cholesterol?
• If a product's package reads "low cholesterol" does that mean that the product is low in fat and safe to eat?
• At what age should people begin having their cholesterol checked?
• High Cholesterol: Frequently Asked Questions Index

You can lower your cholesterol levels by making changes to your lifestyle. Here are some tips.

• Eat foods with less fat, saturated fat and cholesterol.
  
  
• Take off the skin and fat from meat, poultry and fish.
  
  
• Broil, bake, roast, or poach instead of frying foods.
  
  
• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables everyday.
  
  
• Eat lots of cereals, breads, rice, and pasta made from whole grains, such as whole wheat bread or spaghetti.
  
  
• Get lots of exercise everyday. Talk to your doctor about what are the safest and best ways for you to exercise.
  
  
• Lose weight if you are overweight.
  
  
• Stop smoking.
  
  
• Take your high blood cholesterol medication as prescribed by your doctor.

Cholesterol-lowering drugs include:

• Statins
  
  
• Niacin
  
  
• Bile-acid resins
  
  
• Fibric acid derivatives

Cholesterol-lowering medicine is most effective when combined with a low-cholesterol diet.

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