03/17/2026
Big updates in cholesterol care 🫀
The 2026 AHA/ACC hyperlipidemia guidelines are shifting the focus toward earlier, more personalized prevention—and that’s good news for your long-term heart health.
Key Takeaways:
1️⃣ Eat a heart-healthy diet: whole foods, healthy fats, lean protein—limit ultra-processed foods
2️⃣ Lifestyle matters: movement, weight, sleep, and no to***co all lower risk
3️⃣ Start early: cholesterol impacts heart health even in youth
4️⃣ Kids should be screened (ages 9–11), especially with family history
5️⃣ Know your numbers: cholesterol panel + Lp(a), ApoB, and Coronary Artery Calcium (CAC) when appropriate
6️⃣ Risk is personalized: new tools estimate 10- and 30-year heart risk
7️⃣ Supplements not recommended for cholesterol management
8️⃣ Women’s reproductive health matters
9️⃣ Certain conditions (like diabetes or metabolic syndrome) increase risk
🔟 Medications help when needed—and there are options if side effects occur
At our Columbia Direct Primary Care, we take the time to:
✔️ Understand your full risk picture
✔️ Build a personalized prevention plan
✔️ Help you make sustainable lifestyle changes
✔️ Use medications thoughtfully
Heart disease is still the #1 cause of death—but it’s also one of the most preventable. ❤️
