Why is high cholesterol a problem?

The main risk associated with high cholesterol is cardiovascular disease (CVD). This includes diseases of the heart and blood vessels. High cholesterol causes blood vessels to become narrowed with fatty deposits called plaques. This can result in heart attacks, strokes and blood vessel problems. For more information see Angina, Heart attack and Stroke.

Diet to reduce cholesterol

• Healthy eating can reduce cholesterol. Your diet should be low in saturated fats in particular, and low in fat overall. Biscuits, cakes, pastries, red meat, hard cheese, butter and foods containing coconut or palm oil all tend to be high in saturated fats, so cut down on these foods.
• Large amounts of cholesterol are found in a few foods, including eggs, offal such as liver and kidneys, and prawns. However, if you're already eating a balanced diet, you don't need to cut down on these foods unless your GP or dietitian have advised you to.
• It's also important to eat plenty of fibre, especially soluble fibre, which is thought to lower cholesterol. It's found in fruits and vegetables, beans and oats. Aim to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables each day.

Diagnosis high cholesterol level

Having a high cholesterol level does not cause symptoms. Most people find out they have high cholesterol when they have their blood cholesterol measured as part of a medical check-up. Alternatively, it may be identified after other health problems, such as heart disease, have been diagnosed.

Who should have a cholesterol test?

• Anyone who has any cardiovascular disease, such as coronary heart disease, peripheral vascular disease (disease in the blood vessels that supply the limbs) or stroke, should have their cholesterol measured by a doctor.
• Anyone, even children, with a family history of familial hypercholesterolaemia should have their cholesterol measured.
  
• Anyone aged 35 or over should consider having their cholesterol measured if they have one or more of the following risk factors for CVD: family history of early heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or if they smoke.
  

How diet affects blood cholesterol?

Only a small amount of cholesterol comes directly from your diet - the majority is produced by your liver. However, if your diet is high in saturated fats and cholesterol this can cause your liver to produce more LDL ("bad") cholesterol. The amount that diet influences cholesterol levels varies from person to person.