I just got my test results back from my doctor, and I was stunned by the results. My cholesterol is 207, my HDL 39, and my LDL is 155. I thought I was being careful about my health; I'm 21, excercise constantly, don't smoke, and eat very little junk food. In fact, I eat very little, period. I've always been a picky eater, and what I do eat tends to be healthy: whole wheat breads, skim milk, Ensure. I take pre-natal vitamins to make up for what I lack in my diet, and I've been taking flax seed pills to help my skin. My family does have a history of high cholesterol, so what can I do to combat heredity? I don't fancy the thought of taking drugs to control this for the rest of my life...

I'm also on the birth control pill Nordette 28 to ease my PMS problems; I know that the pill can cause strokes and such if your cholesterol is high. Do I need to worry about this?

I will be making an appointment to talk to my doctor about it all, but I'm just so stressed about it now. I want to feel in control of this problem. If anyone can offer me any advice, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks!

IFox,

I don't know the effect of the Nordette (but I'm sure there are more than some.)

The worst aspect of your lipid profile is the low HDL. I have found only two things raise it (and exercise isn't one:(), regular alcohol consumption and niacin...even low dose if you are like me and your system cannot bear much niacin.
Try a couple drinks a day (that's 2 beers, 2- 5 ounce glasses of wine or a one martini.) A little more will work a little better!