In order to lower the levels of high bad cholesterol are many who choose to cut the fat from the diet, take supplements or think that everything depends on the diet. Cardiologists highlight why these options could be a mistake.
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22/08/2026
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O high cholesterol is a warning sign, since it is related to cardiovascular diseases.
For those with high levels, there are several things that are recommended, from physical exercise to balanced feeding. However well-intentioned some habits are, the truth is that they are not always effective.
That said, cardiologists highlight three errors that are usually made through an EatingWell article .
1. Follow a low-fat diet
There is a relationship between fat ingesting and cholesterol levels, but for cardiologists avoiding fat is not the best approach. “A common mistake about reducing LDL cholesterol through diet is the assumption that a low-fat diet is the best option,” noted Alan Rozanski.
In fact, food fat should represent about 20% to 35% of its daily caloric intake. “It is currently known that food fat is not the villain, what matters is the type of fat consumed,” Rozanski said.
Therefore, instead of eliminating fat, you should concentrate on consuming more unsaturated fats and less saturated fats. Excessive consumption of saturated fat may increase cholesterol levels, but maintaining saturated fat intake by 7% or less of daily caloric intake may contribute to healthy cholesterol levels.
In turn, consuming more unsaturated fats can promote healthy cholesterol levels.
2. Overly depending on supplements
You may have heard of supplements such as fish oil, garlic and plant sterols that help lower cholesterol, but cardiologists claim that they are not always effective as an isolated treatment. That is, a balanced diet, regular physical exercise and cholesterol lowering drugs (when prescribed by the doctor) are much more effective.
3. From the assumption that it is only a diet
Doctor Kevin Kheder warns of the danger of assuming that the lie is the only factor influencing cholesterol levels. In terms of individual behaviors keeping active and quitting smoking are also effective ways to reduce cholesterol.
Still, it is important to note that there are factors that are not controllable, such as genetics. “Some people do everything well and still have high LDL cholesterol due to hereditary factors,” says Kheder.
Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor to see if lifestyle changes are enough or if the medication is also appropriate,” says Kheder.