Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is found in the blood and necessary for the body to function properly. However, too much of it can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

That’s why it’s important to monitor cholesterol levels regularly and take steps to prevent high cholesterol as early as possible. But what age is best to start cholesterol prevention? Let’s take a closer look.

Understanding Cholesterol

Cholesterol can be both good and bad for the body. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is the good kind, which helps remove LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, the bad kind, from the bloodstream.

LDL cholesterol can build up on the walls of arteries, leading to blockages that can cause heart attacks and stroke.

High cholesterol usually has no symptoms, which is why it’s important to get regular blood tests to check for cholesterol levels. A simple blood test can measure total cholesterol levels, as well as HDL and LDL levels.

Cholesterol Levels by Age

Cholesterol levels can vary depending on age, sex, and other factors. According to the American Heart Association, the recommended cholesterol levels for healthy adults are:.

Total cholesterol: less than 200 mg/dL
HDL cholesterol: 40 mg/dL or higher for men, 50 mg/dL or higher for women
LDL cholesterol: less than 100 mg/dL

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute recommends cholesterol screening for all adults age 20 and older.

However, if there are risk factors for heart disease, such as a family history of high cholesterol or early heart disease, screening may be recommended at a younger age.

Preventing High Cholesterol

Preventing high cholesterol starts with a healthy lifestyle, including:.

Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy
Limiting saturated and trans fats, cholesterol, and sodium
Maintaining a healthy weight
Getting regular physical activity
Avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption

For some people, lifestyle changes may not be enough to lower cholesterol levels. In these cases, medications such as statins may be prescribed to help lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.

When to Start Cholesterol Prevention

While cholesterol screening is recommended for all adults age 20 and older, prevention efforts can start much earlier. Research has shown that atherosclerosis, or the buildup of plaque in arteries, can begin in childhood and progress into adulthood.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends cholesterol screening for children between the ages of 9 and 11, and again between 17 and 21.

This is especially important for children with risk factors for heart disease, such as obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

It’s never too early to start promoting heart-healthy habits in children, such as:.

Eating a healthy diet
Staying active
Avoiding tobacco smoke
Maintaining a healthy weight
Getting regular check-ups with a healthcare provider

By starting prevention efforts early, children can develop healthy habits that can lower their risk of heart disease later in life.

The Bottom Line

Cholesterol monitoring and prevention should start early in life to promote healthy habits and reduce the risk of heart disease.

While cholesterol screening is recommended for all healthy adults age 20 and older, prevention efforts can start even earlier. By eating a healthy diet, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, individuals can lower their cholesterol levels and reduce their risk of heart disease.