Control Your Cholesterol

Cholesterol is essential for life. It helps to build cell walls and is used in the manufacture of some hormones.
When there is more cholesterol circulating in the blood than the body needs, it can deposit onto the artery walls, eventually leading to narrowing and hardening of the arteries. This process is known as atherosclerosis and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. This risk is increased when other risk factors such as high blood pressure and a family history of heart disease are also present.

What can I do to reduce my cholesterol levels?

• Eat a heart healthy diet - use small amounts of the right kinds of fats and oils
• Be active - exercise moderately at least 30 minutes a day or most days
• Lose weight if overweight
• Reduce your alcohol your intake
• Take cholesterol-lowering tablets if prescribed.

Download our cholesterol factsheet