Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood that your body needs, but in excess it contributes to clogged arteries. What matters most is the harmful particles (LDL and ApoB).
Cholesterol at a glance
For whom
Anyone who wants their cardiovascular risk in view; have ApoB tested if needed.
Not for whom
Do not fixate on a slightly raised number without the rest of your risk.
In practice
Limit saturated fat, add fibre and exercise; statins with raised risk.
Key caveats
Total cholesterol says little; look at LDL/ApoB and the whole picture.
Known
Not yet
What popular health podcasts claimed about cholesterol, checked against the research.
We follow the latest research on cholesterol and listen to leading health podcasts, and we check what they claim. You'll get one email on Thursdays with what matters, and only when there's something new.
You can add more topics later, such as exercise or sleep.