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How to Treat Genetic Cholesterol

Familial hypercholesterolemia is a term used to describe a genetic condition where high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol are found in the blood. In layman's terms, you inherited your high cholesterol from your family. This puts you at a significant disadvantage. Not only is your level already raised, but with fattening foods and little to no exercise, your cholesterol level could become dangerously high. If there is a history of heart attacks in your family, or you have parents with high cholesterol, see a doctor. There is no easy fix for genetic cholesterol, but LDL levels can be lowered with lifestyle changes.

Things You'll Need

  • Healthy diet
  • Exercise regime
  • Cholesterol-lowering medication
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Instructions

    • 1

      Change your diet. Cut down on fatty red meats like beef. Instead, eat fish, chicken and turkey. Check labels for anything containing hydrogenated oil. Many prepackaged foods like chips or snack cakes contain this ingredient. Hydrogenated oil increases LDL levels and decreases HDL levels (good cholesterol). When cooking, opt for olive oil or steaming your food as an alternative. Eat foods high in starch and fiber. Good choices are fruits, vegetables, rice, whole-grain breads, and nuts. For sample meal plans, visit americanheartassociation.org.

    • 2

      Exercise regularly. This doesn't mean you have to run a marathon. Try finding something you enjoy doing. Maybe it's taking a water aerobics class or dance lessons. Maybe it's just taking an evening stroll with your dog. Any type of movement can be considered exercise. Before starting any strenuous exercise regime, however, discuss it with your doctor.

    • 3

      Stop smoking. According to Better Health, "Cigarette smoke encourages cholesterol to 'stick' to artery walls. Quitting can significantly reduce your risk of a heart attack."

    • 4

      Try a cholesterol-lowering medication. Because your high cholesterol is genetic, it's very difficult to lower your levels through diet and exercise alone. According to the American Hearth Association, the drugs readily available to assist in lowering high LDL levels are Statins, Selective Absorption Cholesterol Inhibitors, Resins, Fibrates and Niacin. Discuss with your doctor which option is best for you.

    • 5

      Visit your doctor regularly. Open communication with a medical professional is an important step in lowering your cholesterol. This is especially advised if you are using prescription medicine. Your doctor needs to monitor you to see what's working and what's not.

    • 6

      Join a support group. It's not easy to make these lifestyle changes alone. Seek out online forums or join a local Weight Watchers. Doing so will make your path to a healthier you much easier.

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