You feel perfectly healthy. You eat reasonably well, stay active when you can, and rarely think about your cholesterol.

Then a routine blood test says:
“Your cholesterol is high.”

The surprising part?
High cholesterol usually does not cause symptoms.

That is why you cannot wait for your body to tell you there is a problem.
The good news is that several everyday habits can help manage cholesterol and protect your heart.

• Foods rich in soluble fibre can help reduce LDL, often called “bad” cholesterol.
• Add foods such as oats, beans, lentils, fruits and vegetables to your meals.
• Choose whole grains instead of refined grains whenever possible.
• Increase fibre gradually and drink enough water to avoid digestive discomfort.

• Not all fats affect cholesterol in the same way.
• Limit foods high in saturated and trans fats, such as deep-fried foods, processed snacks and certain fatty meats.
• Choose healthier sources of fat such as nuts, seeds, fish and plant-based oils in appropriate portions.
• Reading food labels can help you identify foods that are high in saturated fat.

• Regular physical activity can help improve your cholesterol profile and support heart health.
• Aim for consistent movement rather than trying to exercise intensely once in a while.
• Brisk walking, cycling, swimming and other activities you enjoy can be good ways to stay active.
• If you have a medical condition or have been inactive for a long time, speak to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.

• Excess body weight can contribute to unhealthy cholesterol levels and increase cardiovascular risk.
• Even modest, sustainable weight loss can improve several heart-related risk factors.
• Focus on long-term eating and activity habits rather than crash diets.
• Your doctor or dietitian can help you set realistic goals based on your health.

• Smoking damages blood vessels and increases your overall risk of heart disease.
• Quitting can benefit your cardiovascular health and improve several other aspects of your health.
• If you smoke, seek professional support to improve your chances of quitting successfully.

• Alcohol is not a recommended strategy for improving cholesterol or protecting the heart.
• Excessive alcohol intake can contribute to high triglycerides and other health problems.
• If you drink, discuss what is appropriate for you with your healthcare professional.

• High cholesterol usually has no obvious symptoms.
• You may feel completely healthy while cholesterol is gradually contributing to plaque buildup in your arteries.
• A lipid profile can measure your cholesterol levels and help assess your cardiovascular risk.
• How often you need testing depends on your age, health history and individual risk factors.

• Not always.
• For some people, diet, exercise and weight management may be enough to improve cholesterol levels.
• Others may need medication based on their cholesterol levels and overall risk of heart disease.
• If your doctor has prescribed cholesterol medication, do not stop it on your own because you have started making lifestyle changes.
• The goal is not simply to lower a number. It is to reduce your overall risk of heart attack and stroke.

• You have been told that your cholesterol is high.
• You have diabetes, high blood pressure or excess weight.
• You have a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol.
• You smoke or have other cardiovascular risk factors.
• You are unsure how often you should have your cholesterol checked.
• You want a personalised diet, exercise or cholesterol-management plan.

If you are concerned about your cholesterol or heart health, consult the Cardiology Department at Horizon Prime Hospital for a cardiovascular risk assessment and personalised guidance.

Know your numbers. Change what you can. Protect your heart for the long term.

Kidney transplant eligibility cannot be decided by age, blood group or one laboratory result alone. Recipients must be fit enough to benefit from transplantation, while living donors must be carefully protected from unacceptable short-term and long-term risks.

Considering a kidney transplant or living donation? Consult an experienced nephrologist and transplant team for a complete eligibility assessment, compatibility testing and clear guidance on the next steps.

Learn about the transplant team, hospital facilities and available support on the Kidney Transplant Care in Thane service page.

Name: Horizon Prime Hospital in Thane

Address: Vibgyor, Ghodbunder Rd, near Hiranandani Estate, behind Ritu Nissan Showroom, B Wing, Patlipada, Thane West, Thane, Maharashtra 400607

Phone: 022 6855 6855

Website: prime.horizonhospital.com