Here are some facts to help you understand the need to control your cholesterol and practical suggestions from cardiologist Perry J. Weinstock, MD, on how to do it. Eat a diet high in saturated fat, though, and you'll end up with too much cholesterol in your blood, which can block arteries and cause heart attacks and strokes. Have your cholesterol checked by your doctor at age 20 and every five years thereafter. More frequent checks are necessary if you have a family history of coronary heart disease. Limit fat to no more than 30 percent of calories, reduce cholesterol intake to 300 milligrams a day, exercise daily and quit smoking.
Medication is used to reduce bad cholesterol and in some cases increase good cholesterol.
For a true picture of your cholesterol, see your physician for a professional laboratory screening.