What is cholesterol, and why does it matter?
Cholesterol is a fatty substance your body needs, but too much of the "bad" type (LDL) can build up in your arteries over time, raising your risk of heart attack and stroke. There's also a "good" type (HDL) that helps clear it away. High cholesterol itself doesn't make you feel unwell, which is exactly why it's worth checking rather than waiting for symptoms.
How do I know if mine is high?
A simple blood test measures your cholesterol and related fats. In Australia, adults are generally encouraged to have a Heart Health Check from age 45 (or from 30 for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people), and earlier if you have risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure or smoking. Your GP can arrange the test and explain what your results mean for you.
What actually lowers cholesterol
- Eat for your heart. Less saturated and trans fat; more vegetables, wholegrains, legumes, nuts and oily fish. A dietitian can tailor this to your tastes and culture.
- Move regularly. Aim for most days. Activity nudges your cholesterol and blood pressure in the right direction.
- Keep a healthy weight, and if you smoke, quitting is one of the most powerful things you can do for your heart.
- Medication when needed. If your overall risk is high, your GP may discuss medication options with you, and explain the benefits and risks for your situation.
The aim is to lower your overall risk of heart attack and stroke, not to chase one perfect number.
It's about your whole heart risk
Cholesterol is one piece of the puzzle. Your GP looks at the whole picture (blood pressure, blood sugar, smoking, weight, family history and age) to estimate your risk and decide what will help most. Two people with the same cholesterol number can need quite different plans, and that's completely normal.
Due for a heart health check?
A simple visit can tell you where you stand. Book with our GPs, online, seven days a week.
How Sirius Health can help
Our GPs can do your Heart Health Check, explain your results clearly, and work with our dietitians on a plan that fits your life, all under one roof.
Sources: healthdirect · High cholesterol; Heart Foundation (Australia).