Overview

Cholesterol is a type of fat in your blood. It is needed for many body functions, such as making new cells. Cholesterol is made by your body. It also comes from food you eat. High cholesterol means you have too much of the fat in your blood.

If you have high cholesterol, this fat can build up inside your blood vessel walls. Over time, this raises your risk of having coronary artery disease, a heart attack, or a stroke.

You can improve your cholesterol levels and lower your risk of coronary artery disease with healthy habits. But for some people, cholesterol problems run in the family. If changes in diet and exercise don't improve your cholesterol levels, you and your doctor can decide if medicine is right for you.

How can you care for yourself at home?

• Eat a variety of foods every day. Good choices include fruits, vegetables, whole grains (like oatmeal), dried beans and peas, and nuts and seeds. Other good choices are soy products (like tofu), and fat-free or low-fat dairy products.
• Use olive and canola oils instead of butter, margarine, or hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils. (Canola oil margarine without trans fat is fine.)
• Replace red meat with fish, poultry, and soy protein (like tofu).
• Limit processed and packaged foods like chips, crackers, and cookies.
• Bake, broil, or steam foods instead of frying them.
• Limit foods high in cholesterol, such as egg yolks.
• Be physically active. Get plenty of exercise every day. Go for a walk or jog, ride your bike, or play sports with friends.
• Do not smoke. Smoking can increase the chance you will have a heart attack. If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.
• If you take medicine for high cholesterol, be sure to take it every day.