Cholesterol Treatment

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Need an effective way to manage cholesterol? InstantScripts offers personalised scripts to eligible patients to help keep your levels in check, reassuring you from the comfort of your home.

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Dr. Sarah Cavanagh Chief Medical Officer InstantScripts

How our doctors can help

Referrals or tests
Referrals or tests
Management plan
Management plan
Medical information
Medical information
Treatment options
Treatment options

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What is cholesterol?

Why is cholesterol essential?

Cholesterol plays important roles in the body, such as building cell walls and producing hormones. The liver produces most of the cholesterol needed, while the rest comes from dietary sources.

What are the types of cholesterol?

Cholesterol is carried in the blood by lipoproteins. The main types are high-density lipoprotein (HDL), often called "good" cholesterol because it helps remove cholesterol from arteries, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), known as "bad" cholesterol as it can leave cholesterol in the arteries. A lipid profile blood test measures total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Why is high cholesterol bad for health?

While some cholesterol is necessary, excessive LDL cholesterol can lead to atherosclerosis. LDL cholesterol builds up in artery walls, forming plaques that narrow or block arteries, impeding blood flow.

How can I lower my cholesterol?

To lower LDL cholesterol levels, reducing saturated fat intake is advised. This includes limiting foods like cakes, fatty meats, butter, full-fat dairy, and those containing coconut or palm oil. A high-fibre diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and plant sterol-enriched foods can also help. Increasing physical activity and maintaining a healthy weight further contribute to cholesterol reduction. If lifestyle changes are insufficient, you should speak to a doctor about the right treatment for you.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in the body and certain foods. While it is necessary for proper bodily function, excessive cholesterol can harm arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.

Sources

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/cholesterol, Heart Foundation (Blood cholesterol), Diabetes Australia (Cholesterol), CSIRO (Cholesterol facts), Pathology Tests Explained (Lipids), Heart Foundation (Five ways to lower cholesterol), Heart Foundation (Healthy eating to protect your heart).