Elevated Cholesterol

[scarlett09]

I recently had some routine bloodwork done and my cholesterol came back borderline high (231). My LDL and triglycerides are high. I don't have a history of it in my family, and medications aren't necessary at this point and time.

I've started to modify my diet further to include both types of fiber and lower my intake of saturated fats. We already eat a lot of lean protein, veggies/fruit, and whole grains/low amounts of refined products. And I've gotten back into the gym in the past month, so I know my physical activity is up and that will also help.

I guess my question for everyone is: has anyone been able to lower their cholesterol on diet and exercise alone? I'm just a little worried that it won't go down on its own and it will require meds at some point.

[Vanquisher]

I dropped mine from 170ish to 145 by losing weight and exercising. I wasn't that worried about my cholesterol though, as it is obviously really low. I have good cholesterol genes. It is possible, and I hope you don't have to go on meds!

[diggitydot]

DH lowered his almost 100 points with diet and exercise changes. There's a significant family history on his side for ridiculous lipid levels, so he took it very seriously.

[Meenah]

What was your glucose, and how high were your triglycerides?

[scarlett09]

Thanks Vanquisher and diggity, that info makes me feel a lot better! I know I can do it, but the "real life" stories make feel it is really and truly doable.

Meenah - total cholesterol: 231, triglycerides: 150, LDL: 154. I'm trying to interpret a LabCorp report, so Glucose, Serum: 84, and there was no Glucose in my urinalysis. If there is other terminology I should look for, let me know. Oh, my T4 came back slightly elevated as well, but we think that is because I'm taking a hormonal BC.

[Vishenka69]

Diet and exercise didn't work that well for me, I'll need to go on the meds at some point. But my cholesterol is inherited, so not sure if that makes a difference.