Hyperlipidemia, also referred to as high cholesterol, is a condition that affects a substantial portion of the population. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that about 100 million adults in the United States had elevated total cholesterol levels as of 2020. High cholesterol is a recognized risk factor for heart disease, which remains a leading cause of mortality globally. Both genetic factors and lifestyle choices can influence cholesterol levels.

Understanding methods to manage cholesterol can contribute to maintaining overall health, and there are various strategies available for individuals to achieve this.

Modify your diet.

Adjusting your diet can influence cholesterol, though it accounts for only 20–30% of blood cholesterol, according to the Cleveland Clinic. The American Heart Association notes that high saturated fat intake—found in fatty meats, butter, cheese, cream, and many baked goods—raises LDL (bad) cholesterol and worsens arterial plaque. Opting for leaner foods or a Mediterranean diet can help manage cholesterol levels.

Exercise is a powerful tool for cholesterol management.

Exercise can help to lower bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels while increasing HDL (good) cholesterol. The AHA recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity. After a few months of routine exercise, people may see noticeable improvements in their cholesterol levels.

Losing weight can help lower cholesterol levels.

Excess body weight, particularly around the waist, can negatively affect how the body processes cholesterol. WebMD says every 10 pounds a person is overweight causes the body to produce as much as 10 milligrams of extra cholesterol every day. Losing even 5 to 10 percent of one’s body weight can significantly benefit cardiovascular health.

Quit smoking and reduce alcohol consumption.

Smoking damages blood vessels and accelerates the buildup of plaque. Excessive alcohol consumption can raise triglyceride levels and affect heart health. Adjusting these habits can benefit the heart in many ways.

Explore medical intervention.

Lifestyle changes alone may not be enough for some individuals to reach target cholesterol numbers, especially if genetic issues or other health conditions are contributing factors. A person’s doctor may recommend medication. Statins are the most commonly prescribed and highly effective medications for lowering cholesterol. They work by reducing the liver’s production of cholesterol and increasing its ability to remove LDL.

Monitoring and addressing high cholesterol are important for overall heart health. Individuals can take a comprehensive approach that includes diet, exercise and potentially medication to keep cholesterol in check.