Your Five-Step Plan
for Cholesterol Control
By now you know high cholesterol is bad for your heart and your health. But what can you do about it? Here’s a surefire strategy to take charge of your numbers.
It all starts with a phone call to your physician. From there:
- Get your stats. Have your cholesterol checked at least every five years after age 20.
- Set a goal. The ideal ranges are:
- Total cholesterol: 200 or less
- LDL or “bad” cholesterol: less than 160
- HDL or “good” cholesterol: at least 40
However, your doctor might suggest different numbers based on your heart risk—for instance, an HDL of 60 or higher or an LDL of 100 or lower.
- Start heart-healthy habits. If you’re on the high side, ask your health care team for help planning lifestyle changes. Quit smoking, exercise, limit saturated and trans fats, and drop pounds if you’re overweight.
- Track your progress. Use a chart to write down your test results after each doctor visit, along with your physical activity and diet goals.
- Check in with your doctor. Over time, cholesterol builds up in your arteries and blocks blood flow to the heart. This can lead to chest pain, stroke, or a heart attack. If lifestyle changes don’t lower your numbers, your doctor might recommend medications.
If you need a personal physician, call our Physician Referral Line at 828-757-5571.
