What You Should Know About High Cholesterol
If your doctor has told you that your cholesterol is high, you may be wondering what that really means. You may also be asking yourself, “Do I need medication?” or “Can I lower my cholesterol naturally?”
These are very common questions. The good news is that having high cholesterol does not mean you have done something wrong, and it does not mean you cannot improve your health. With the right information and support, cholesterol can often be managed effectively.
Cholesterol is a substance your body naturally needs. It helps your body build cells and produce certain hormones. The concern is having too much of certain types of cholesterol in your bloodstream. Over time, this can contribute to plaque building up inside your arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.
Understanding your cholesterol is an important step toward protecting your long-term health.
What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood. Your liver makes most of the cholesterol your body needs, and you also get some from certain foods.
You will often hear about two main types:
LDL cholesterol is commonly called “bad” cholesterol. When LDL levels are too high, cholesterol can build up in the walls of your arteries.
HDL cholesterol is often called “good” cholesterol. It helps carry cholesterol away from the bloodstream and back to the liver.
Your blood test may also measure triglycerides, another type of fat in your blood. Your doctor looks at these results together with your overall health and other risk factors rather than focusing on one number alone.
For more information, Health Canada's information on high cholesterol is a helpful, reliable resource.
Why Is High Cholesterol a Concern?
One of the tricky things about high cholesterol is that you usually cannot feel it.
Unlike an infection or an injury, high cholesterol generally does not cause noticeable symptoms. You may feel perfectly healthy while your cholesterol is higher than recommended. A blood test is the best way to find out where your levels stand.
Over many years, excess LDL cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup in your arteries. This can make it harder for blood to flow normally and may increase the risk of serious cardiovascular problems, including heart attack and stroke.
That is why routine health checkups are valuable, even when you feel well.
What Can Cause High Cholesterol?
High cholesterol can happen for several reasons, and sometimes there is no single obvious cause.
Your diet can play a role. Eating a lot of foods high in saturated or trans fats can raise LDL cholesterol.
Your activity level matters as well. Regular physical activity supports heart health and can have a positive effect on cholesterol levels.
Family history and genetics can also influence cholesterol. Some people inherit conditions that cause very high cholesterol even when they eat well and exercise regularly.
Other factors, including age, certain medical conditions, excess weight and smoking, can also affect cholesterol and overall cardiovascular risk.
This is why cholesterol should always be considered as part of your bigger health picture.
How Do You Know If You Have High Cholesterol?
The only way to know your cholesterol levels is through a blood test, often called a lipid panel or lipid profile.
The test may measure:
Total cholesterol
LDL cholesterol
HDL cholesterol
Triglycerides
Your healthcare provider can explain what your results mean for you. There is no single cholesterol number that is ideal for everyone. Your recommended levels can depend on your age, medical history, family history and other cardiovascular risk factors.
Health Canada recommends cholesterol screening beginning at age 40, or earlier for people who have certain risk factors.
If you are unsure whether you should have your cholesterol checked, a conversation with your healthcare provider can help you decide.
What Can You Do to Manage High Cholesterol?
If your cholesterol is high, try not to feel discouraged. Small, consistent changes can make a meaningful difference.
Choose Heart-Healthy Foods
You do not need to completely change your diet overnight. Start with practical changes that you can maintain.
Try including more vegetables, fruits, whole grains and high-fibre foods in your meals. Choose lean sources of protein and healthier sources of fat when possible. At the same time, limit foods that are high in saturated and trans fats.
Reading food labels can also help you understand what you are eating and make informed choices.
Stay Active
Regular physical activity is good for your heart and overall health. Walking, cycling, swimming and other activities you enjoy can help you stay active.
If you have not exercised regularly, start slowly and choose activities that are appropriate for your current fitness level.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
If you are carrying excess weight, gradual and sustainable changes can support healthier cholesterol levels and reduce cardiovascular risk. You do not need to make extreme changes. Your healthcare provider can help you set realistic goals.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking can damage your blood vessels and increase your risk of heart disease. If you smoke and would like to quit, speak with your healthcare provider about resources and support.
Take Medication If Recommended
Lifestyle changes are important, but they are not always enough to bring cholesterol into a healthier range.
Depending on your cholesterol levels and overall risk, your healthcare provider may recommend medication such as a statin. If medication is prescribed, take it as directed and speak with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about side effects.
Never stop a prescribed medication on your own without discussing it with your healthcare provider first.
When Should You Talk to a Healthcare Provider?
It is worth discussing your cholesterol with a healthcare provider if:
You have been told that your cholesterol is high.
You have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease.
You have diabetes or high blood pressure.
You smoke.
You have other cardiovascular risk factors.
You are unsure when you last had your cholesterol checked.
Regular checkups can help identify potential concerns before they become more serious.
You can learn more about family practice services at Applewood Medical Clinic and discuss your personal health concerns with a healthcare professional.
For additional reliable information, the CDC's cholesterol resources and Mayo Clinic's guide to high cholesterol are useful resources.
Conclusion
Hearing that you have high cholesterol can feel concerning, but it is also an opportunity to take a closer look at your heart health.
Because high cholesterol usually does not cause symptoms, regular screening is important. Eating a balanced diet, staying active, avoiding smoking and following your healthcare provider's recommendations can all help you manage your cholesterol and reduce your cardiovascular risk.
You do not have to figure it all out at once. If you have questions about your cholesterol, need a health assessment or are unsure whether you should be tested, consider speaking with a healthcare professional.
Your cholesterol numbers are only one part of your health story. Understanding them is the first step toward making informed choices for your future.
For more information or to arrange an appointment, visit Applewood Medical Clinic.