Genetically high cholesterol, also known as familial hypercholesterolemia, passes down through families. It causes high levels of "bad" cholesterol, or LDL, right from birth. This can result in heart attacks at an early age. The gene responsible for this condition is abnormal; it blocks the cell receptor that clears LDL from your bloodstream, resulting in unusually high amounts of this cholesterol. NetDoctor.co.uk explains when one parent with this gene passes it on to their child, the child has a 50 percent chance of developing familial hypercholesterolemia. Although the reasons for high cholesterol differ from people without this condition, the forms of treatment are the same.
Step 1
Drink alcohol in moderation. Alcohol in moderation -- one drink per day for women and two drinks a day for men -- increases your HDL, or "good," cholesterol. HDL clears excess LDL from your blood and arteries, transporting it from your body. NetDoctor.co.uk suggests drinking red wine as it can reduce the damaging effects of LDL cholesterol.
Step 2
Stop smoking. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation products. Smoking significantly increases the risk of serious heart conditions if you have high cholesterol. Some over-the-counter products, such as the patch and gum, might be helpful. You may require a prescription medication; ask your doctor what he feels is the best option for you.
Step 3
Increase your level of physical activity. Physical activity strengthens your heart and reduces your risk of developing cardiovascular disease. Ask your doctor to devise an exercise plan to fit your needs according to your medical condition. On average, 30 minutes a day is a good starting point. Take a walk, ride a bike or work in your yard. Any activity that increases your heart rate is beneficial.
Step 4
Change your eating habits. Cut back on saturated fats, such as red meat, replacing it with lean poultry or fish. Eat more whole-grain products, such as bread, oatmeal or 100 percent whole-grain cereal, rather than refined sugar products such as white bread and rice. Whole wheat pasta and brown and wild rice, and five servings a day each of fruits and vegetables are a good starting point as well.
Step 5
Take a cholesterol-lowering medication. In addition to your dietary and lifestyle changes, you might need a cholesterol-lowering medication. Statins are the first choice; these reduce the production of cholesterol in the liver and reabsorb cholesterol in the blood, clearing it from your arteries. Overall, they can reduce your LDL by as much as 50 percent. A number of statins are available in a wide range of doses. Your doctor will determine the right one for you.
