Everything you need to know about cholesterol and your heart health
Cholesterol plays an essential role in the body and is necessary for various functions such as cell building and hormone production. But when cholesterol levels are too high, it can have serious health consequences. Elevated cholesterol levels are often associated with cardiovascular disease, which is one of the most common causes of mortality worldwide.
Yet many people do not know exactly what cholesterol is, how it is measured and why it is important to test regularly. In this comprehensive guide, we answer the most frequently asked questions about cholesterol and explain how you can easily measure your cholesterol with a self-test.
1. What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver and also absorbed through food. It is an essential component of cell membranes, and plays an important role in the production of hormones, vitamin D and bile acids, which help in fat digestion.
There are two main types of cholesterol:
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL cholesterol) – This is known as the “bad” cholesterol. Too much LDL cholesterol can build up in blood vessels and lead to arteriosclerosis (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke.
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL cholesterol) – This is called the “good” cholesterol. HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and carry it back to the liver, where it is broken down and excreted.
A good balance between LDL and HDL is essential for a healthy heart and blood vessels.
2. Why is cholesterol important?
Healthy cholesterol levels are crucial in preventing cardiovascular disease. When cholesterol builds up in blood vessels, it can lead to narrowed and hardened arteries. This can eventually result in:
- High blood pressure
- Heart attacks and strokes
- Angina pectoris (chest pain due to constricted blood vessels)
- Poor blood circulation, which can lead to limb problems
By measuring your cholesterol levels regularly, you can intervene in time and make lifestyle or medication changes before it causes serious health problems.
3. How is cholesterol measured?
Cholesterol is measured through a blood test and can be determined in several ways:
- Blood test at a GP’s office – A doctor can perform a blood test in a laboratory to determine your exact cholesterol levels.
- Health test at a pharmacy – Some pharmacies offer quick cholesterol tests that can give an initial indication.
- Cholesterol self-test for home use – With a cholesterol test, you can easily measure your cholesterol yourself at home and get instant results.
A cholesterol test offers a convenient way to regularly check your cholesterol levels and take timely action in case of elevated values.
4. When should you take a cholesterol test?
A cholesterol test is recommended in the following situations:
- You have a family history of cardiovascular disease
- You are overweight or have high blood pressure
- You smoke or have an unhealthy lifestyle
- You have diabetes or other risk factors for cardiovascular disease
- You want to gain preventive insight into your heart health
For healthy adults, it is recommended to have a cholesterol test at least once every five years. People at increased risk should have their values checked more often.
5. What do the test results mean?
Cholesterol is measured in millimoles per litre (mmol/L). The following guidelines give an indication of healthy values:
| Cholesterol type | Healthy value |
|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | Lower than 5.0 mmol/L |
| LDL cholesterol (“bad”) | Lower than 2.6 mmol/L |
| HDL cholesterol (“good”) | Higher than 1.0 mmol/L (men) / 1.2 mmol/L (women) |
| Triglycerides | Lower than 1.7 mmol/L |
Interpretation of your test results:
- Normal: Your cholesterol levels are within the recommended limits.
- Slightly elevated: You are at moderate increased risk. Adaptation of your diet and lifestyle is advised.
- Highly elevated: An increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Consult a doctor for further investigation and possible treatment.
6. What are the risk factors for high cholesterol?
Several factors can contribute to elevated cholesterol levels, including:
- Unhealthy diet – Foods rich in saturated and trans fats increase LDL cholesterol.
- Lack of exercise – A sedentary lifestyle lowers HDL cholesterol and increases LDL.
- Smoking – Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol and damages blood vessels.
- Obesity – Extra body fat increases LDL and triglyceride levels.
- Genetic predisposition – Hereditary high cholesterol (familial hypercholesterolemia) can occur in some families.
By recognising and actively combating these risk factors, you can lower your cholesterol levels and improve your heart health.
7. How can you lower your cholesterol?
If your cholesterol levels are too high, there are several ways to lower them:
- Healthy diet – Avoid saturated and trans fats and eat more fibre, vegetables and healthy fats (such as olive oil and oily fish).
- Regular exercise – At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise a day, such as walking or cycling.
- Quit smoking – This not only improves your cholesterol but also lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Weight loss – A healthy weight helps balance cholesterol levels.
- Medication – In some cases, a doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medication, such as statins.
Combining a healthy lifestyle with regular cholesterol measurements can significantly reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Frequently asked questions about cholesterol and cholesterol tests
What is the difference between LDL and HDL cholesterol?
LDL is the “bad” cholesterol that accumulates in blood vessels, while HDL is the “good” cholesterol that helps remove excess cholesterol.
Is a cholesterol self-test reliable?
Yes, a cholesterol self-test offers a reliable first indication, but additional testing at a doctor’s office is recommended in case of abnormal values.
