Lifestyle Modifications for Patients with High Cholesterol Dietary Modifications • Reduce saturated fats (butter, ghee, cream, full-fat dairy) • Avoid trans fats (fried foods, bakery items, packaged snacks) • Increase intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes • Prefer plant-based proteins and healthy oils in limited quantities Frequent Hotel / Restaurant Food – Important Advice Regular consumption of hotel or restaurant food should be avoided as it is a major contributor to high cholesterol due to excess oil, butter, cream, and salt. Limit or Avoid: • Fried foods (poori, bhatura, pakoras, fries) • Butter- or cream-based gravies (butter masala, makhani, korma) • Cheese-rich dishes, fast foods, refined flour items (naan, pizza) • Desserts and sweets after meals When Eating Outside: • Choose grilled, steamed, roasted, or tandoori foods • Prefer plain dal, vegetables, salads, and curd • Request less oil and avoid fried starters Physical Activity • At least 30 minutes of brisk walking on most days of the week • Avoid prolonged sitting and maintain daily movement Weight, Sleep, and Stress • Maintain healthy body weight • Sleep 7–8 hours nightly • Practice stress-reduction techniques such as yoga or meditation Key Message: Avoid frequent hotel food. Consistent lifestyle changes are essential for long-term heart health Why Lifestyle Changes Matter: High cholesterol increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Lifestyle modification is the first-line and most important step in cholesterol management, even when medications are prescribed.