Frequently Asked Questions - Cholesterol and Heart health

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance produced by your body and found in animal-based foods. It travels through your bloodstream via lipoproteins - LDL ("bad") and HDL ("good"). High levels of LDL can result in cholesterol becoming lodged in artery walls and raise your risk of heart disease and stroke, while HDL helps clear excess cholesterol

In the UK, individuals aged 40 to 74, who don't have pre-existing conditions, are invited for an NHS Health Check every five years, which includes a cholesterol test. If you have risk factors for cardiovascular disease or are taking medication to lower cholesterol, you may need more frequent testing, as advised by your doctor. 

To lower LDL:

• Swap saturated fats for unsaturated fats (e.g., olive oil, nuts, avocado)
• Eat plenty of soluble fibre (oats, beans, berries)
• Include omega‑3-rich fish (e.g., salmon, sardines) and plant sterols (in fortified foods) 

Reduce intake of:

• Fried and processed foods
• Fatty meats (e.g., bacon, sausage)
• Full-fat dairy and butter
• Trans fats (found in many baked goods)

• Butter: High in saturated fat - okay in small amounts, but best to use sparingly and shift to healthier fats, like olive spread.
• Eggs: Though they contain cholesterol, they’re low in saturated fat and generally safe for most people when consumed in moderation within a balanced diet.
   

Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, weight loss, quitting smoking) are the first step. If LDL remains high, especially with other risk factors, your GP may prescribe statins.

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is inherited and can lead to high cholesterol from a young age, even in children. Managing FH typically involves early screening, lifestyle changes, and often medication, sometimes starting in adolescence or adulthood.