How to lower cholesterol

Lower cholesterol by tailoring diet and lifestyle changes to your lipid pattern, and use medication when appropriate.

• Reduce carbohydrates to lower triglycerides: This can be especially relevant when triglycerides are elevated or insulin resistance is present; energy restriction can also help. 1
• Reduce saturated fat to help lower ApoB: Attia identifies saturated fat as a dietary factor that often drives ApoB upward, while emphasizing that responses to foods vary between people. 2
• Consider medication with a clinician: Statins inhibit cholesterol synthesis; the liver responds by increasing LDL receptors and removing more LDL from circulation. PCSK9 inhibitors are another potent option, discussed in the context of familial hypercholesterolemia. 3 4
• Exercise regularly and address overall health: Exercise can improve insulin sensitivity, although Attia describes its direct effect on lipids as limited. 5

The discussion supports individualized diet changes and medical treatment when needed; it does not provide evidence here for tobacco avoidance, stress management, or weight maintenance as cholesterol-lowering steps.