Cholesterol Checklist

A checklist for supporting healthy cholesterol through diet, activity, knowing your numbers, and follow-up testing.

Published June 29, 2026

Know Your Numbers

Have your cholesterol tested as your doctor recommends
Record your results with the test date
Ask your doctor what your numbers mean for you
Track results over time to see trends
Note your overall heart-health risk factors
Ask your doctor about your numbers and your target range

Heart-Healthy Eating

Fill more of your plate with vegetables and fruits
Choose whole grains over refined ones
Include healthy fats like those from nuts and fish
Limit fried and highly processed foods
Cut back on foods high in saturated fat
Add more fiber-rich foods to your meals

Activity and Lifestyle

Aim for regular physical activity as your doctor allows
Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke
Limit alcohol
Manage stress and aim for good sleep

Follow-Up and Monitoring

Schedule follow-up tests as recommended
Keep appointments to review your results
Discuss blood pressure and blood sugar too
Take any prescribed medicines exactly as directed
Update your doctor on lifestyle changes you have made

Questions for Your Doctor

Ask what your results mean for your heart health
Ask which lifestyle changes would help most
Ask whether medicine is recommended for you
Ask how often you should be retested
Ask which warning signs to watch for

Important

This checklist is general information only and is not medical advice; ask your doctor about your numbers, your targets, and any treatment, and follow their guidance based on your full risk picture
Lifestyle habits support but do not replace care from your doctor

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A cholesterol checklist gathers everyday steps that support healthy cholesterol, from diet and activity to knowing your numbers and keeping up with follow-up testing. It helps you build heart-healthy habits and prepare for conversations with your doctor.

Cholesterol is one part of your overall heart health. Lifestyle habits can support healthy levels, and regular testing helps you and your doctor track changes over time.

This list keeps healthy ranges general and focuses on habits and follow-up. Your specific targets and any treatment decisions should come from your doctor, who looks at your full risk picture.

Made for patients and seniors supporting heart health, this checklist is printable and downloadable as a PDF. Use it to build habits, track test results, and prepare questions for your next visit.

FAQ

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a substance in your blood that your body needs in balance. Levels are usually measured with a blood test, and your doctor looks at the results alongside your overall heart-health risk.

What are healthy cholesterol numbers?

In general terms, a healthier balance of the different cholesterol measures is the goal, but the right targets depend on your overall risk. Ask your doctor about your numbers and what is appropriate for you.

How can I support healthy cholesterol?

Helpful habits include eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats, limiting highly processed foods, staying active, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking. Your doctor can advise what fits you.

How often should I have my cholesterol checked?

Testing frequency depends on your age, risk factors, and past results. Some people are checked every few years and others more often, so ask your doctor how often you should be tested.

Is this cholesterol checklist printable?

Yes. Print it or download the PDF, use it to build heart-healthy habits, and track your test results to discuss with your doctor.