5 things you didn’t know about cholesterol
There are lots of misperceptions about cholesterol. These facts can help you keep your heart health in check.
Cholesterol plays a big role in heart health, but not everything you’ve heard is true. Discover surprising facts about cholesterol, plus how to manage it for a healthier heart.
Find top doctors near you
Discovering a doctor or specialist near you is easier than ever.
Start your search
1. Not all cholesterol is bad for you
There are two types of cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is bad. It can build up in artery walls, leading to coronary artery disease. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is good. It helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
2. It’s OK to eat an egg
It is true that eggs are high in cholesterol. But the real concern to watch in your diet is foods that are high in saturated fat and trans fat. Those can raise your LDL cholesterol level. (Eggs are not high in saturated fat.)
Everything you need in one convenient place
3. Exercise is important too
Food choices can help lower LDL cholesterol. But regular exercise can also help raise your HDL Aim to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise a week, like brisk walking, riding a bike and swimming.
4. There are other ways to improve cholesterol levels besides diet and exercise
Beyond diet and exercise, your weight, age and family medical history can influence your cholesterol. Your doctor may recommend a medication called a statin to help lower your LDL cholesterol.
5. You need a cholesterol check starting at age 20
The American Heart Association recommends that you start getting your cholesterol tested at age 20. High cholesterol typically has no symptoms. Testing helps spot problems early when they are often easier to treat.
