According to NHS guidance, some people may be able to lower their cholesterol levels through lifestyle changes and consequently avoid needing to take statins. High cholesterol, the service explains, is mainly caused by eating fatty foods, insufficient physical activity, being overweight, smoking and drinking alcohol, although it can also run in families.
Risks of High Cholesterol
The NHS warns: "Too much cholesterol can block your blood vessels. It makes you more likely to have heart problems or a stroke. High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. You can only find out if you have it from a blood test."
Dietary Recommendations
Guidance recommends you can reduce your cholesterol by limiting fatty foods - particularly those containing high levels of saturated fat - and including more fruit and vegetables, nuts and seeds, brown rice and grains, olive oil, and oily fish in your diet. You should also try to complete at least 2.5 hours of exercise weekly, with the NHS suggesting activities such as walking, swimming and cycling to start with.
Other Lifestyle Factors
Smoking can also increase cholesterol, and the NHS additionally advises reducing alcohol intake. This means consuming no more than 14 units of alcohol weekly, steering clear of binge drinking, and ensuring several alcohol-free days throughout the week.
When Statins Are Needed
However, some individuals will also require statins. The majority of people who take statins manage them effectively, experiencing minimal or no side effects. A GP may suggest you start taking statins if you have been diagnosed with a type of cardiovascular disease (CVD) such as coronary heart disease or angina. Statins may also be prescribed if your personal and family medical history indicates you're at risk of developing CVD at some point over the next 10 years - particularly if lifestyle changes have failed to bring that risk down.
