Taking drugs for cholesterol is a worst-case scenario

Myths and truths about cholesterol and your health

Here are some common misconceptions about cholesterol and the truth behind them

By Kat Tancock

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The myth: Taking drugs for cholesterol is a worst-case scenario

The truth: "Even though an individual may have a healthy lifestyle, their cholesterol may still be high and they might need other interventions," says Dr. Iglar – this has to do with genetic factors out of our control. This doesn't mean you can't lower your cholesterol through a healthier lifestyle – you just may not be able to lower it enough. "If your set point is high, you can bring it down 20 percent," says Dr. Iglar, "but you may not be on target."