Saturated fat, which is mainly found in red meat and full-fat dairy products, can increase total cholesterol. Reducing saturated fat consumption can reduce LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol).

Trans fat, sometimes listed on food labels as "partially hydrogenated vegetable oil," is often used in margarine and instant foods such as cookies, crackers, and cakes. Trans fat can increase overall cholesterol levels.

"Omega-3 fatty acids do not affect LDL cholesterol. They have other benefits for heart health, including lowering blood pressure. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, herring, walnuts, and flaxseed."

Sports can increase cholesterol. Moderate physical activity can help increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is good cholesterol. With the doctor's permission, do at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week or intense aerobic activity for 20 minutes three times a week.

Stopping smoking can increase your HDL cholesterol levels. Within 20 minutes of quitting smoking, blood pressure and heart rate recover from the spike caused by cigarettes. Within three months of quitting smoking, blood circulation and lung function begin to improve. Within one year of quitting smoking, your risk of heart disease is halved compared to smokers.

Sometimes a healthy lifestyle change is not enough to lower cholesterol levels. If Doctor Sahabat Dream recommends medication to help lower cholesterol, consume it according to the prescription while still making lifestyle changes. Source: Mayo Clinic.