If you'd like to learn the difference between the so-called "good" and "bad" cholesterol, what the numbers on your cholesterol test mean, how you can improve your numbers and what specific foods you should avoid or add to your diet to help you maintain healthy blood cholesterol levels, there are many, free and low-cost sources of information available to you. From government institutions like the U.S. Department of Agriculture to non-profit associations like the American Heart Association to medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic, many authorities offer user-friendly cholesterol information.
Step 1
Take a cholesterol test. There are many, low-cost, drop-in clinics that give cholesterol tests, providing you with your results within minutes. The person who performs the test can explain your results to you. Visit health fairs or look for similar venues that offer free or reduced-priced cholesterol screenings.
Step 2
Consult a physician or registered dietitian to discuss your specific need to address cholesterol and get specific instructions or suggestions for dealing with high cholesterol. A doctor may prescribe medication or recommend an over-the-counter supplement, such as niacin or fish oil. She will explain any side effects to you.
Step 3
Visit the American Heart Association's website to learn about cholesterol. The AHA has several pages that explain low-density lipoproteins, or "bad" cholesterol; high-density lipoproteins, or "good" cholesterol; triglycerides; and cholesterol ranges and their meanings. The site provides suggestions for improving your cholesterol numbers, including cooking and eating tips.
Step 4
Visit the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's website to learn the recommended daily intake of cholesterol for your age, weight and activity level. Adjust your calculations as your weight, age and activity level change. Read, "How to Understand and Use the Nutrition Facts Label," to learn how to find and understand cholesterol information on packaged foods and drinks.
Step 5
Use online research tools such as LiveStrong's My Plate to learn the cholesterol content in specific foods and drinks to help you plan menus. Visit the Mayo Clinic's website for information explaining how exercise, cooking, food selection and lifestyle changes affect your cholesterol levels. Visit your library to find books, tapes, CDs and DVDs that contain information on cholesterol.
Things You'll Need
- Cholesterol test
- Online cholesterol calculators
