Managing Cholesterol to Reduce Heart Disease

As we close out September—National Cholesterol Education Month—we recognize the importance of regular physical activity, a heart healthy diet, and maintaining a healthy weight for managing cholesterol. Almost 2 in 5 U.S. adults have high cholesterol, putting them at increased risk for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.

Regular physical activity can help lower “bad” (LDL) cholesterol, raise “good” (HDL) cholesterol, and reduce heart disease risk. A 2021 American Heart Association Scientific Statement identified physical activity as a critical component of a first-line treatment for mildly or moderately elevated cholesterol.

Registered exercise professionals can help clients manage their cholesterol by:

1. Raising awareness about the connection between physical activity, diet, weight, and cholesterol.
2. Developing exercise programs that meet the physical activity guidelines for aerobic and muscle-conditioning activities.
3. Integrating physical activity goals into an overall cholesterol treatment plan, in collaboration with other health professionals as part of a care team.

Check out our registry to find registered exercise professionals in your community.

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