The first step is to understand if you have high cholesterol levels or are at risk of developing heart diseases. This can be determined with a simple lipogram test.
You can make simple lifestyle changes to improve your cholesterol, starting with a heart-healthy diet. Reduce saturated fats, such as red meat and full-fat dairy products, which raise your total cholesterol, and eliminate trans fats, which are found in margarines and cookies, crackers and cakes. Eat more foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such salmon, mackerel, herring, walnuts and flaxseeds, and increase your consumption of fiber, such as oatmeal, kidney beans, apples and pears.
Exercise can improve cholesterol, so aim to exercise for 30 minutes five times a week. Quitting smoking can dramatically decrease cholesterol levels. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation, as too much alcohol can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart failure and strokes.