Cholesterol is a fatty substance carried in your blood and is vital for your body to function, but high levels of cholesterol can increase your risk of serious health conditions such as heart attack, stroke or mini-stroke.   

You can’t tell by looking at someone if they have high cholesterol. Your risk of developing high cholesterol increase with:  

  • unhealthy diet (high in saturated fats e.g. butter, biscuits, fatty cuts of meat, sausages, bacon, cheese and cream)
  • smoking
  • lack of physical exercise
  • high alcohol intake
  • kidney or liver disease
  • diabetes
  • high blood pressure
  • a family history stroke or heart disease.

The good news is there are lots of things you can do to reduce your cholesterol levels and if you need a bit more support, Wirral Community NHS Trust’s Lifestyle Service is here to help!

Whether you want to learn some healthy recipes, quit smoking, lose weight, get more active or reduce your stress levels – there are a wide range of FREE activities and courses. You can get one-to-one support with a health trainer, join in some classes and meet some new friends all with the same aims as you. And the best thing…it’s FREE!

Take the first steps to a healthier you today by calling 0151 630 8383 or visit our website www.wirralct.nhs.uk. 

Top tips:

  • try steaming, poaching, boiling or grilling instead of roasting or frying
  • choose lean cuts of meat
  • go for low-fat varieties of dairy products and spreads
  • aim to eat five portions of fruit or veg each day (the fibre can help reduce the amount of cholesterol in your body)
  • get active
  • stop smoking
  • reduce your alcohol intake.  

Q&A

How do I get my cholesterol tested?

Speak to your GP if you are worried or to find out more about cholesterol visit the NHS Choices website – www.nhs.uk

I haven’t done any exercise for a long time; will I be able to do any of the activities?

Yes, we have a wide range of FREE activities which includes low-impact activities such as chair based exercises, various local walks. If you want to find out more call us on 0151 630 8383.