High cholesterol often comes with no warning signs, which is why many people only find out about it through a routine blood test. While the numbers on your results sheet might seem confusing, understanding them is key to looking after your heart health. Whether you’ve been told your cholesterol is slightly raised or you’re simply taking a proactive approach, knowing what’s normal — and when to take action — can make a big difference. In this blog, we’ll explain what cholesterol is, what your levels might be telling you, and when it’s worth seeking further advice. And if you’re still unsure, our team at Southdowns Pharmacy is always here to help.

What Is Cholesterol – and Why Does It Matter?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in your blood. Your body uses it to build healthy cells and make hormones, but having too much of the wrong type can increase your risk of serious health issues, including heart attacks and strokes. The tricky part? High cholesterol usually causes no symptoms — so regular checks are the only way to know where you stand.

There are three key components of a cholesterol test:

• LDL (low-density lipoprotein) – Often called ‘bad’ cholesterol. Too much of it can build up in your arteries and restrict blood flow.
• HDL (high-density lipoprotein) – Known as ‘good’ cholesterol. It helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
• Triglycerides – A type of fat in the blood. High levels can contribute to heart disease, especially when paired with high LDL or low HDL.

When these levels are out of balance, cholesterol can collect on your artery walls — a process called atherosclerosis. Over time, this increases your risk of cardiovascular disease. The good news is that cholesterol can usually be managed through lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both.

Is a Cholesterol Level of 5.7 High?

If you’ve recently had a cholesterol test and your total level came back as 5.7 mmol/L, you might be wondering whether that’s something to worry about. The answer isn’t always straightforward — cholesterol results need to be looked at in context, taking into account other risk factors such as your age, blood pressure, medical history, and whether you smoke.

As a general guide, here’s how cholesterol levels are typically assessed in the UK:

• Total cholesterol: Ideally 5.0 mmol/L or below
• LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol: 3.0 mmol/L or below
• HDL (‘good’) cholesterol: 1.0 mmol/L or above for men; 1.2 mmol/L or above for women
• Triglycerides: Below 1.7 mmol/L (fasting level)

A total cholesterol reading of 5.7 mmol/L is considered slightly above the ideal range. However, it may not require treatment if the rest of your cardiovascular risk profile is low. If your HDL level is high and your LDL is well managed, your doctor or pharmacist may simply recommend keeping an eye on it through regular check-ups and lifestyle tweaks.

The important thing to remember is that no single number gives the full picture. That’s why it’s best to discuss your results with a healthcare professional who can assess your overall heart health.

What Causes High Cholesterol?

Several different factors can raise your cholesterol levels — some are lifestyle-related, while others may be out of your control. Understanding what contributes to high cholesterol can help you make changes that support your long-term wellbeing.

Common causes include:

Diet: Eating too much saturated fat (found in red meat, cheese, butter, and processed foods) can increase LDL cholesterol.

Lack of physical activity: A sedentary lifestyle can lead to higher LDL and lower HDL levels.

Smoking: Damages blood vessels and lowers good cholesterol.

Drinking too much alcohol: Raises triglyceride levels and affects how the liver processes fat.

Being overweight or obese: Often linked with higher LDL and triglycerides, and lower HDL.

Medical conditions: Such as diabetes, underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), and kidney or liver disease.

Genetics: Some people inherit a condition called familial hypercholesterolaemia, which causes very high cholesterol regardless of lifestyle.

Even if you feel healthy, it’s worth knowing your cholesterol levels — especially if you have a family history of heart problems or other risk factors.

What You Can Do to Improve Your Cholesterol

The good news is that high cholesterol is often manageable with simple lifestyle changes — and even small adjustments can have a big impact over time. If your levels are slightly raised, you may not need medication straight away. Instead, your GP or pharmacist may recommend trying a few healthy habits first.

Here are some proven ways to help lower your cholesterol naturally:

• Eat a heart-friendly diet: Focus on foods high in fibre (like oats, beans, lentils, and wholegrains) and healthy fats (such as nuts, seeds, avocados, and oily fish). Try to cut down on saturated fats found in fatty meats, butter, cheese, and processed snacks.
• Move more: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week, such as brisk walking, swimming, or cycling. Exercise helps boost your HDL (‘good’) cholesterol while lowering LDL and triglycerides.
• Quit smoking: Stopping smoking can improve your HDL levels and reduce your overall cardiovascular risk.
• Limit alcohol: Stick to the recommended guidelines — no more than 14 units of alcohol per week — to help control triglycerides and protect your liver.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Even a modest weight loss can help improve your cholesterol and blood pressure.

In some cases, lifestyle changes aren’t enough — especially if you have a genetic condition or other health issues. If your cholesterol remains high, your GP may prescribe medication such as statins to help reduce your levels and protect your heart.

Worried About Your Cholesterol? Speak to Southdowns Pharmacy

If you’re unsure about your cholesterol levels or have recently received a result you don’t fully understand, our friendly team at Southdowns Pharmacy is here to help. We offer cholesterol checks at selected branches, giving you the chance to monitor your heart health without needing a GP appointment.

Whether you’re keeping an eye on an existing condition or simply taking a proactive step, our checks are quick, confidential, and carried out by trained professionals. We’ll explain your results clearly and offer personalised advice to help you manage your cholesterol through lifestyle changes or onward referral if needed.

Book your cholesterol check below or contact us for more information. We’re here to support your heart health.

This blog was written on behalf of Southdowns Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.