III.

Improving Cholesterol Levels

People who are born with a predisposition to have abnormally high levels of cholesterol—especially LDL and VLDL cholesterol—can reduce their risk of heart attack by lowering their blood cholesterol. This is done by following a diet low in cholesterol and saturated fats, getting sufficient exercise, and using certain drugs. In 1987, lovastatin, one of a class of drugs called statins that inhibit cholesterol synthesis, was approved for sale in the United States. Many similar drugs are now available. See Nutrition, Human.

A low HDL level also increases the risk of heart disease. Researchers believe that HDL cholesterol carries LDL cholesterol to the liver and helps prevent the formation of arterial plaques. Thus, raising levels of HDL, the so-called good cholesterol, may help prevent atherosclerosis and heart attacks. Regular exercise helps some people raise their HDL levels. Studies suggest that the B vitamin niacin can elevate HDL levels. A long-term study to test the effects of a combination of niacin and a statin on plaque formation and heart disease began in 2006.