The American Heart Association’s new guidelines suggest starting the conversation about cholesterol health in your 30s, rather than waiting until your 40s or 50s. The goal is not to put everyone on a statin immediately but to focus on “lifetime risk of high cholesterol.” Experts think about cholesterol as an exposure risk, and longer exposure increases heart attack and stroke risks.
Building healthy habits in your 20s and 30s can have benefits for decades to come. Here are some impactful habits:
Get tested and know your numbers: This is the best place to start.
Move more: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, including strength training and consistency.
Build a healthy eating pattern: Focus on Mediterranean or DASH diets with fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and heart-healthy unsaturated fats.
Quit smoking and vaping: Quitting can significantly improve heart health.
Prioritize good sleep: Aim for 7 hours of sleep per night and build good sleep hygiene habits.
Remember, consistency is key. Start where you are and make a realistic goal.
Source: https://www.today.com/health/disease/new-cholesterol-guidelines-2026-heart-health-rcna264168