09/16/2026
World Heart Day is coming up and we have been taking time to learn about cholesterol as it relates to our heart health. Most people have had conversations with their doctor about cholesterol, so many have a general understanding. However, we also hear many myths regarding cholesterol that are just that: myths! Here are some common misconceptions about cholesterol you may have heard before!
You do not need your cholesterol checked until middle age
This is a myth! It's best to work with your healthcare provider to determine your risk for high cholesterol, heart disease, and stroke. The recommendation is that all adults over 19 should be checking their cholesterol regularly
You should wait for your healthcare provider to mention cholesterol
This is a myth! It’s best to take charge of your health! Your healthcare provider can help determine a schedule based on your individual needs
Diet and physical activity dictate your cholesterol level
This is a myth! While it is important to make healthy eating and activity choices to reduce cholesterol, there are other factors. Age, family history, and diabetes are some other factors that may increase the risk for high cholesterol
With medications, there’s no need to make lifestyle changes to improve cholesterol
This is a myth! It’s important to take medication as your healthcare provider instructs, and these medications definitely help lower cholesterol. However, lifestyle changes work together with medications to get the best results possible.
If I have high cholesterol, I should try to limit food that contain cholesterol like eggs and shrimp.
This is a myth! Most of the cholesterol in your body is made by your liver - only about 2% of it comes from food. There is no reason to limit foods that contain dietary cholesterol.
The only way to improve your good cholesterol (HDL) is to lose weight
This is a myth! The best things you can do to improve your HDL are: stop drinking alcohol, stop using ni****ne, increase physical activity
💬Stay tuned this month for more on heart health and cholesterol!!
