With heart disease remaining a leading cause of death, understanding cholesterol is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. The American Heart Association (AHA) has released new guidance on navigating cholesterol, highlighting the importance of balance between "good" and "bad" cholesterol. According to the AHA, cholesterol is a waxy substance that the body needs to build cells and produce hormones, but excess low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Conversely, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good" cholesterol, helps reduce this risk.
"Cholesterol itself isn’t the enemy – our bodies need moderate levels to function," said Dr. Roger S. Blumenthal, chair of the 2026 Dyslipidemia Guideline writing group and AHA national volunteer expert. "The goal is balance. Healthy lifestyle habits are a powerful step in keeping LDL cholesterol in a healthy range and protecting your heart and brain over the long term." The AHA stresses that blood cholesterol levels are influenced by overall diet, lifestyle, genetics, and other health factors, not just dietary cholesterol. A heart-healthy eating pattern includes vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and unsaturated fats while limiting ultra-processed foods high in saturated fats, added sugars, and sodium.
Regular screening is key. The AHA recommends that adults aged 19 and older have their cholesterol checked at least every five years via a lipid profile blood test, which measures HDL, LDL, triglycerides, and total cholesterol. Understanding these numbers, along with other risk factors such as age, family history, and smoking status, helps determine a person's risk of heart disease or stroke. Healthcare professionals can then design personalized treatment plans.
For most people, lifestyle changes form the foundation of cholesterol management. The AHA advises a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, adequate sleep, avoiding tobacco, and managing blood pressure and blood sugar. In some cases, cholesterol-lowering medications may be necessary based on overall risk. If side effects occur, patients should consult their healthcare provider to adjust treatment. The AHA also emphasizes that high cholesterol can begin in childhood, particularly for those with inherited conditions. Cholesterol screening is recommended for children between ages 9-11 to guide early intervention and establish healthy habits that reduce long-term risk.
For more information, visit Heart.org/KnowYourCholesterol.
