Being genetically predisposed to high cholesterol means you have familial hypercholesterolemia, a medical term doctors use to describe a condition that is passed down through families. This condition results in high levels of LDL -- low-density lipoprotein -- cholesterol, or "bad" cholesterol that begins at birth. Although it can result in heart attacks at an early age, you can take steps to treat this condition, preventing health complications from occurring. While the cause of familial hypercholesterolemia may differ from that of a person whose cholesterol is high due to poor eating habits, the treatments are basically the same.
Step 1
Change your eating habits. Eat more whole-grain foods -- breads, oatmeal and whole-grain cereal. These are high in fiber and absorb excess cholesterol in your intestines. Whole-wheat pasta, brown rice and wild rice are also healthy alternatives and promote heart health.
Step 2
Reduce your daily cholesterol intake. NetDoctor.co.uk suggests lowering your daily intake of cholesterol by eating lean meat such as chicken and fish. The recommended amounts are 300mg per day, or 200mg if you have heart disease.
Step 3
Reduce or eliminate trans fats. Trans fats, which are found in commercially baked goods such as cookies, cakes, snack cakes and potato chips, increase your LDL cholesterol. Although the item may state "trans-fat free," it can still contain a small trace. Read the food label. If you see hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oil, do not purchase it. Replace these items with fresh fruits and vegetables.
Step 4
Quit smoking. If you have familial hypercholesterolemia, you already have an increased risk for serious heart conditions such as heart disease. Smoking significantly increases this risk. Speak to your doctor about the right smoking cessation program for you.
Step 5
Increase your level of physical activity. Regular exercise helps lower high levels of LDL and strengthens your heart, reducing your risk of cardiovascular disease. Thirty minutes per day of moderate activity, such as walking, swimming or biking, is sufficient and beneficial.
Step 6
Take a cholesterol-lowering medication. NetDoctor.co.uk states that medication is always necessary in combination with lifestyle changes when you are genetically predisposed to high cholesterol, because it is difficult to lower your cholesterol levels. Statins are the first choice. They reduce the production of cholesterol in the liver and can lower LDL levels by up to 50 percent.
