Previous slide Next slide Carousel slide Pause slide movement Resume slide movement
use left or right arrow keys to navigate the tab,
Page First page Last page More pages Next page Previous page
Press Enter or Space to expand or collapse and use down arrow to navigate to the tab content
close menu open menu
Click to read more about this recipe
Includes
Your webbrowser is outdated and no longer supported by Microsoft Windows. Please update to a newer browser by downloading one of these free alternatives.
cholesterol monitoring guide

Cholesterol monitoring: a how-to guide

Thinking about getting your first-ever cholesterol test? Not quite sure how it all works? Wondering about how to check cholesterol at home, or if this is a good idea? Find answers to some of the frequently-asked questions about the cholesterol testing process below.

Q: Is it possible to check cholesterol at home with a cholesterol monitor?

A: According to Heart UK, the best, most reliable way to discover your cholesterol levels is to get them tested by a healthcare professional. Yes, it can be tempting to get a cholesterol home test kit, but you can’t always be sure that these tests come from a reliable source, provide accurate results – or that you’re using and maintaining them properly.

Q: Do I need to fast before having my cholesterol tested?

A: The healthcare professional conducting your cholesterol test will tell you ahead of time if you need to fast. The levels of cholesterol in your blood are measured with a simple blood test, either with a blood sample taken from a vein in your arm, or with a pin-prick amount of blood from your finger. Again, your doctor is the final authority on this, so don’t be afraid to ask or call ahead once you’ve planned your cholesterol check.

Q: Who can perform a cholesterol test?

A: Who can you trust to check your cholesterol accurately? You may have been wondering how to check your cholesterol at home, but it is best to speak with your doctor or practice nurse about arranging a cholesterol test, or book yourself in at a pharmacy, instead of checking your cholesterol at home. Having it tested by a health professional is the recommended approach.

Q: How do I find out more about my cholesterol test results?

A: We know how it is. Just after you step out of a healthcare professional’s office, a hundred questions suddenly occur to you. Here is a guide to normal cholesterol levels. We also have a guide to help you understand cholesterol readings and a wealth of articles on cholesterol. Find out how regular exercise, good sleep habits, and a balanced diet (including enjoying cholesterol-lowering products* such as Flora ProActiv spreads, mini drinks, or milk drinks) will help you to maintain a healthier lifestyle.

For some extra information, sign up to the Flora ProActiv newsletter for the latest cholesterol lowering tips, recipes, and more delivered direct to your inbox. If you’re also looking for more information on how to lower cholesterol to the recommended level, then download our Cholesterol Lowering Starter Kit. It includes useful recipe ideas and healthy lifestyle tips, and will help you to make a start today!