Along with high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels are regarded as one of the most reliable indicators of possible serious health problems, particularly in the cardio-vascular field. We are told that we should check our cholesterol levels, as many of us already have high cholesterol without being aware of it. We may then need to take steps to bring about a lowering of our cholesterol to within a more healthy range.

In the past, it was believed that certain foods, particularly those containing animal fats, would cause a rise in cholesterol. We were warned particularly against eating too many eggs, as these were considered to be a major culprit. More significantly, it was considered that all cholesterol was bad cholesterol. Scientific and medical research has more recently revealed that there are in fact two types of cholesterol: good cholesterol, otherwise known as High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and bad cholesterol, otherwise known as Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL). We need not only to keep our LDL levels low, but we need also to keep our HDL levels high.

There are now simple tests that can be used to measure levels of both types of cholesterol. Visit Good Cholesterol Level for tips on diagnosing cholesterol. If, having been tested, someone has a cause for concern, there are various measures that can be taken in order to bring about a lowering of "bad" cholesterol. There are many products on the market, including milk products and spreads, that contain substances known as plant sterols. These substances can have a significant impact on levels of LDL, and used for sustained periods will reduce it to a more healthy reading.

Additionally, there are dietary measures that can be taken in order to maintain both a reasonably high level of HDL (or good cholesterol) and a low level of LDL (or bad cholesterol). A generally healthy diet, high in fruit, vegetables, wholegrain and healthy fats, such as olive oil and nuts is likely to be beneficial. Surprisingly, also, eggs are not considered to be a culprit in causing high cholesterol. Of course, anyone who has been found to have a problem with cholesterol needs to consult a doctor and follow whatever advice is given in regard to the best diet to follow. Sometimes, even those who have followed a healthy diet may unknowingly have unhealthy and potentially dangerous cholesterol levels. Regular testing is therefore important in order that effective steps can be taken to regulate it.