Managing High Cholesterol: How a Dietitian Can Help You Take Control of Your Heart Health

ByAnnabelle Johnson

High cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death worldwide. Lifestyle and dietary changes are pivotal in managing cholesterol levels. Working with a registered dietitian can make these changes more effective, sustainable, and personalised to your needs.

What Is High Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood. While the body needs some cholesterol to build healthy cells, too much low-density lipoprotein (LDL or “bad” cholesterol) can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.

There are two main types:

  • LDL (low-density lipoprotein): Can accumulate in artery walls and form plaques.
  • HDL (high-density lipoprotein): Helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.

Causes of High Cholesterol

Several factors contribute to elevated cholesterol levels, including:

  • Poor diet 
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Smoking
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Chronic conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism

How a Dietitian Can Help

A dietitian can offer tailored advice to help you lower cholesterol through diet and lifestyle changes. 

Here’s how I can support you:

1. Personalised Nutrition Plans

Dietitians assess your current eating habits, health history, and lifestyle to create a meal plan that works for you. A dietitian can help you:

  • Choose heart-healthy fats 
  • Increase fibre intake 
  • Reduce saturated fats and eliminate trans fats
  • Understand cholesterol-lowering foods

2. Goal Setting and Tracking

A dietitian can help you set realistic, achievable goals to help reduce cholesterol. Regular follow-ups help track progress and maintain accountability.

3. Behavioural Coaching

Changing long-standing habits isn’t easy. Dietitians provide the tools, support, and accountability needed to adopt and maintain healthy behaviours over time.

4. Label Reading and Meal Planning

A dietitian can teach you how to interpret food labels and prepare heart-healthy meals.

High cholesterol doesn’t have to be a lifelong struggle. With the guidance of a dietitian, you can make meaningful, sustainable changes to your diet and lifestyle that significantly improve your heart health.

Book in here to start your journey to better health.