Cholesterol

Understanding your cholesterol

Non-urgent advice: Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a type of blood fat which is made in the liver. It’s found in some foods too. 

We all need some cholesterol in our bodies just to keep us ticking over, but having too much can clog up your arteries and lead to health problems in the future, including heart disease.

What is cholesterol?

Understanding your cholesterol test results

Non-urgent advice: Statin Guidance

Your GP practice may advise statin medication if your calculated cardiovascular disease risk is >10% over the next 10 years, have established cardiovascular disease or have a particular condition that increases your risk. 

Download the NICE guidelines Decision Aid for 'Should I take a statin'

Heart UK cholesterol helpline: ask@heartuk.org.uk

Losing around 10% of your body weight can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, reduce blood pressure, and lower your risk of type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. It also eases pressure on your joints, making movement more comfortable.

For exercise and weight loss support visit TadleyMedical/Weight Exercise & Weight Loss

Page last reviewed: 01 November 2025
Page created: 10 December 2019