What is the difference between good and bad cholesterol?

LDL ('bad') cholesterol builds up in artery walls and contributes to plaque formation and atherosclerosis. HDL ('good') cholesterol helps remove LDL from arteries and transport it back to the liver for processing. A healthy balance with low LDL and high HDL is ideal.

Can I lower cholesterol with diet alone?

Diet and lifestyle changes can lower LDL cholesterol by 10-20% in some people. However, many people with significantly elevated cholesterol, especially those with genetic predisposition, will also need statin medication to reach target levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.

Do statins have serious side effects?

Statins are generally well tolerated and have a strong safety profile. The most common side effect is muscle pain, which occurs in about 5-10% of patients. Serious side effects like liver damage or rhabdomyolysis are rare, and the cardiovascular benefits typically far outweigh the risks.

CardiovascularICD-10: E78.0Nearly 94 million U.S. adults have total cholesterol above 200 mg/dL

High Cholesterol

Also known as: Hypercholesterolemia, Hyperlipidemia, Dyslipidemia, Elevated Cholesterol

High cholesterol is a condition in which there is an excess of cholesterol in the blood, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Over time, excess cholesterol builds up in artery walls, forming plaques that narrow and harden the arteries (atherosclerosis), significantly increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. High cholesterol typically has no symptoms, making regular screening essential for early detection.

Symptoms

Usually no symptoms (a silent condition)

Only discovered through blood testing

Xanthomas (fatty deposits under the skin) in severe familial cases

Corneal arcus (white or gray ring around the cornea) in younger people

Symptoms appear only when complications develop (chest pain, stroke)

Causes

Diet high in saturated and trans fats
Genetic factors (familial hypercholesterolemia)
Sedentary lifestyle and obesity
Underlying conditions (hypothyroidism, diabetes, kidney disease)
Certain medications (corticosteroids, some HIV drugs)

Risk Factors

Poor diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol
Obesity (BMI of 30 or greater)
Lack of physical activity
Smoking (lowers HDL 'good' cholesterol)
Age (cholesterol levels rise with age)
Family history of high cholesterol or heart disease

Diagnosis

Lipid panel blood test (total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides)
Fasting blood draw recommended for accurate results
Screening recommended every 4-6 years for adults 20 and older
More frequent testing for those with risk factors

Treatment

Statins (atorvastatin, rosuvastatin) as first-line medication
Ezetimibe to reduce cholesterol absorption
PCSK9 inhibitors (evolocumab, alirocumab) for refractory cases
Bile acid sequestrants
Heart-healthy diet and lifestyle modifications
Regular aerobic exercise

Prevention

Eat a diet low in saturated fat and trans fat
Exercise at least 150 minutes per week at moderate intensity
Maintain a healthy weight
Don't smoke or quit if you do
Get cholesterol checked regularly starting at age 20

When to See a Doctor

You haven't had your cholesterol checked in the past 5 years
You have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
You've been diagnosed with high cholesterol and need treatment
You experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other heart symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Coronary Artery Disease

Cardiovascular

Angina Pectoris

Cardiovascular

Type 2 Diabetes

Endocrine

Atrial Fibrillation

Cardiovascular

Related from the Supplement Library

Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)

Strong

Fatty Acid · Cardiovascular health (TG reduction, anti-arrhythmic)

Berberine

Strong

Compound · Blood sugar regulation comparable to metformin (AMPK activation)

CoQ10 (Ubiquinone)

Strong

Compound · Mitochondrial energy production (ATP)

Psyllium Husk

Strong

Compound · Promotes digestive regularity

Artichoke Leaf Extract

Moderate

Herb · Liver health and detoxification support

These supplements have been studied in relation to High Cholesterol. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you take medications.

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Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.

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