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From strengthening your heart to promoting better sleep, regular exercise offers a number of physical and mental health benefits. But getting up and moving can be easier said than done. Here are some suggestions for building a fitness routine that sticks.

How to Start and Stick to a Fitness Routine

No one is immune to the physical and mental benefits of exercise. Beyond helping to manage a wide range of health conditions — from hypertension and diabetes to COPD and anxiety disorders — regular physical activity strengthens cardiovascular health, supports healthy sleep patterns, and lowers your risk for many preventable diseases.

But while there are many reasons to exercise, getting up and moving is often easier said than done. Less than 5% of US adults get 150 minutes of weekly exercise — the minimum suggested by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. And up to 65% of all those who begin a fitness program don’t continue it beyond the 3-6 month window, according to the New York Times.

Whether you’re trying to get back in the swing of a fitness routine or struggling to carve out time for your favorite workout, use the suggestions below to build an exercise plan that sustains you for the long haul.

On those days when life gets in the way of sticking to your routine, it’s easier to stay committed if you have a clear reason to prioritize exercise.

While the benefits of physical activity are universal, motivation looks different for everyone. Perhaps you’re navigating a recent diagnosis of a chronic condition or proactively taking care of your mental health. Whatever your reason may be, keep it in the back of your mind. And if you haven’t found one yet, here are some additional exercise benefits to consider:

It can help slow aging-related changes like the loss of bone density or shifts in cognitive function.

It’s fundamental to practicing a heart-healthy lifestyle.

There are as many reasons to exercise as there are activities to choose from. And if you don’t consider yourself an “exercise person,” there’s a good chance you haven’t found your go-to workout just yet.

As you make your fitness plan, give some thought to how you really want to spend those 150 minutes each week. Research and experts both agree that people are more likely to stick to an exercise routine if they actually enjoy it, and your chosen workout often plays a role in the consistency of your habits.

Take your interests, strengths, and personality all into account. Are you most comfortable at a fast or slow pace? Inspired by nature? Enjoy a healthy dose of competition? More fond of team sports or solo challenges? You might be surprised by the amount of options.

When in doubt, think of activities you feel confident doing or skills you would like to continue to build. If certain types of exercise aren’t the right fit, there’s often an alternative to consider. For example, the rowing machine is a great alternative to swimming for anyone seeking a low-impact cardio workout.

Create a routine that sustains your goals.

Repetition and consistency will keep you going when motivation wanes, so build a routine that sustains your habits.

First and foremost, make sure there’s time in your schedule for exercise. Block off a half hour for a workout on your calendar, just as you would for a meeting or doctor’s appointment. Make sure to have a back-up plan, too — if your 7 am pilates class isn’t feasible one week, leave room for a midday walk or run around the neighborhood.

Life too busy? We have a couple of tips for those short on time:

High intensity interval training (HIIT), which alternates quick spurts of intense effort with brief rest, is a great way to fit aerobic exercise into a packed schedule.

Take a few shorter walks throughout the day instead of a 30-minute or hour-long stroll — you’ll still reap the benefits!

Goals are a key component of any exercise plan, but it’s important that they are achievable. Over-ambition is one of the biggest barriers to progress and consistency: if you aim too high right out of the gate, you may find yourself quickly discouraged and decide to throw in the towel altogether.

Be specific: Rather than setting out to “exercise more,” commit to exercising for a certain number of days a week.

Be flexible: Aiming for a range of 3-5 days each week can help you still feel accomplished if you need to slightly scale down during busy times.

Focus on the process: Many behavioral science experts suggest structuring your goals around the process or activity — for instance, how long you exercise — rather than an outcome, which is less within your control. It takes time to form a new habit — 18 to 254 days, to be precise — so simply showing up is a worthwhile goal to work toward.

Gradually build on your goals: Once you have a foundation in place, keep yourself motivated by expanding your goals. If you’re a runner, you might try to gradually increase the length or distance of your regular workout. Make sure to check with a doctor or fitness expert about finding an appropriate level of fitness intensity.

Eliminate obstacles through small actions.

Look for opportunities that make it easier to follow through with your fitness intentions. Having to choose an outfit for your morning workout might not seem like much effort, but packing a gym bag in advance or folding your workout clothes by your bed the night before removes an extra step from the process.

If you’re starting to work out in a gym, plan a specific workout in advance so that you can maximize your time once you’re there.

For an extra boost of motivation, make your fitness routine more social. Research has found a link between the success of a workout program and social accountability. So dig through your personal network to find a gym or yoga buddy, or search for a local running club. Not only will you benefit from the extra accountability — you’ll be offering it in return.

Navigating exercise with a chronic health condition

There’s often a misconception that certain conditions, including diabetes and COPD, prevent exercise. In actuality, regular physical activity is part of managing many chronic conditions. However, there may be additional considerations to account for when creating an exercise routine.

Here are some general guidelines to be mindful of when exercising with diabetes, COPD, asthma, osteoporosis, or arthritis. Always speak with your provider to discuss what activities are appropriate for your personal health history.

Maintaining healthy blood sugar is a crucial part of diabetes management. Exercise is a factor in your glucose levels, and some people experience decreased blood sugar during or after exercise. 

A variety of factors can affect your blood sugar response to exercise, including:

Your blood sugar levels prior to exercise

To exercise safely as a person with diabetes, check your blood sugar before, during, and after exercise, and be prepared to treat low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia.

In strengthening your respiratory muscles and making it easier to breathe, regular physical activity is key to maintaining an active life while living with COPD. However, it’s important to practice gentle exercises that don’t overexert your lungs. Your provider can help you determine appropriate activities.

You may also benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation, an outpatient exercise and education program that helps those with COPD manage the condition.

As many as 90% of people with asthma experience respiratory symptoms during physical activity. For some, symptoms begin right at the start of exercising while others experience airflow obstruction after returning to a state of rest. In some cases, symptoms quickly resolve, but they may last up to 24 hours in others.

Rather than avoiding exercise to prevent an asthma flare-up, speak with your healthcare provider about your asthma treatment plan and look for forms of exercise with an appropriate level of intensity.

The weakening of the bones in osteoporosis increases the risk for fractures, so those with the condition should take precautions to avoid exercise-related injuries.

Here are some general guidelines for exercising with osteoporosis. Check with your provider about which activities are the best for you. 

Unless otherwise informed by your doctor, avoid high-impact exercises and activities that involve frequent bending or twisting, as they may increase your risk of fractures.

Explore weight-bearing aerobic activities to strengthen bones in your legs, hips, and lower spine.

Try simple balancing exercises or movement-based stability exercises such as tai chi to maintain good stability and balance.

Opt for gentle activities like water exercises, tai chi, yoga, and stretching, all of which reduce joint pressure and expand your joints’ range of motion.

Let Alto support your health and wellness

Staying on top of your health should be as simple as possible, and we’re here to support you with exceptional pharmacy care. We offer fast and reliable courier delivery and medication management tools like reminders and auto refills in our mobile app.

This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.

IVF is often a rewarding journey, but it is also a physically and emotionally taxing experience. For many people, uncertainty can be one of the most difficult aspects of the process.

How to Prepare for Your IVF Cycle

Many factors shape each person’s experience of IVF. You have more control over some than others. Preparation includes both taking steps to increase your chance of success while also learning what challenges to anticipate and how to navigate them. Here’s more on what to expect.

It’s important to know upfront that the IVF journey can be longer than hoped or expected and multiple cycles are common. Of those who eventually conceive through the process, it takes an average of 2.7 cycles to become pregnant.

However, certain health and lifestyle factors can influence the likelihood of a successful cycle, and it is definitely worth doing everything you can to be at your healthiest when you begin treatment. Use the following suggestions below as a starting point — note that they also apply to physical preparation for an egg freezing cycle.

Research has found that weight can factor into the outcome of fertility treatment. Being underweight or overweight can both impact your body’s response to IVF medications. Having a healthy weight as you start your cycle may increase your chance of success.

Keep in mind that there are many factors in a person’s overall health, and being at a healthy weight looks different for everyone. Your provider is an important resource and can advise you on whether your weight may impact your fertility.

A well-balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight and feel your best throughout your IVF journey. In general, load up on fruits and veggies, lean proteins like fish and poultry, and whole grains. Opt for healthy fats such as avocados, nuts, and seeds as much as possible. It’s recommended to limit your intake of red meat, sugar, and processed foods.

Most health experts advise against any significant changes to your diet before or during an IVF cycle.

Taking prenatal vitamins may improve the quality of your eggs — which is important for a successful embryo transfer during IVF — and prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy. 

Prenatal vitamins that include folic acid, coenzyme, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids like DHA are typically most beneficial, but check with your provider about the best option for your needs.

Some evidence suggests that healthy vitamin D levels can impact your IVF experience. Ask your provider if you would benefit from a vitamin D supplement.

Avoid unhealthy habits and lower your caffeine intake

You’re likely already aware of the dangers of smoking during pregnancy, but the reasons to avoid the habit while preparing for IVF go beyond the obvious.

While research on the link between IVF and smoking is ongoing, there’s strong evidence that smoking leads to lower success rates. More specifically, it can decrease the thickness of the endometrium, the layer of tissue lining the uterus. This can lower the chance of successful embryo implantation.

Research has also found a link between alcohol consumption during IVF and live birth rates.

Don’t be afraid to ask your provider for support if you are attempting to give up smoking or drinking in preparation for fertility treatment.

Experts haven’t yet determined specifically how caffeine impacts fertility, but several studies have found a link. It is recommended to limit your daily caffeine intake to 200 mg — approximately two 8-oz cups of coffee — during preconception and the first trimester of a pregnancy.

Not only will staying well rested improve your mental and emotional well-being during IVF, some studies have found a correlation between sleep quality and IVF success.

Of course, getting enough rest can be easier said than done: 1 in 3 U.S. adults report that they sleep less than the recommended minimum of seven hours per night. To improve the quality and duration of your sleep, try the following strategies:

Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, going to bed and waking up at the same time every day, including weekends.

Avoid use of electronic devices close to your bedtime.

Get plenty of natural light and stay physically active during the day, but avoid exercising close to bedtime.

Avoid eating or drinking close to bedtime, particularly caffeine, alcohol, and high-sugar or high-fat foods.

Keep your bedroom dark and quiet and maintain a comfortable temperature.

Staying physically active is part of maintaining good health as you prepare for the IVF journey. Check with your doctor about your individual needs, but 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week is generally a good target to aim for.

High-impact cardiovascular exercise isn’t recommended during IVF, but low-impact exercise is typically safe. However, some clinics advise against exercising altogether during an IVF cycle. Your care team can provide individualized recommendations.

Remember that your partner’s health matters, too

If you are a woman attempting to conceive with a male partner, remember that, while you are the one undergoing the process of IVF, your partner’s health can also affect the outcome of treatment.

There are many factors in sperm quality, including sleep, exposure to chemicals and toxins, and lifestyle habits like smoking and alcohol consumption.

Steps that a male partner should take before IVF include limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking or using other harmful substances, maintaining a healthy weight, and eating a nutritious, balanced diet.

Review current medications with your doctor and make treatment adjustments if necessary

Some over-the-counter and prescription medications can impact your body’s response to fertility medications and the outcome of treatment. Make sure your doctor is informed of all medications and supplements you take. If any aren’t recommended to take during an IVF cycle, discuss how to safely taper off of them and whether to switch to an alternative medication.

Fertility treatment is a highly personal experience, and the process — including how stressful it is — looks different for each person. One thing that’s universal, however, is that information and support make the journey more manageable.

IVF is a significant financial investment, and the cost of treatment is a common source of stress. It isn’t always possible to predict the course of treatment, or how much it will cost, since there are so many variables, but doing preliminary research and mapping out your personal goals can help you prepare.

If you have health insurance, look into the details of your plan as a starting point. Coverage of fertility treatment varies significantly from one plan to another.

If your insurance plan covers IVF medications, that coverage may fall under the medical portion of your plan rather than the pharmacy one. We encourage you to contact your insurance carrier for an in-depth explanation of your fertility benefits. Additionally, some clinics have an insurance department, which can be another resource as you do your research.

As you prepare for the financial aspects of IVF, it is helpful to determine how many cycles you are willing or able to try. Keep in mind that there are many financial resources that can help you manage or lower the cost of IVF.

Beyond the emotionally taxing nature of fertility treatment, IVF can cause anxiety purely as an unfamiliar medical treatment. Take time to discuss the process with your clinical team. Some phases can cause additional stress, like the egg retrieval and embryo transfer. Knowing what to anticipate will likely help.

You should also prepare to make certain decisions, including how many embryos to transfer and what you will do with unused eggs or embryos. For some individuals and couples, the IVF process involves donor sperm or eggs. Discuss your options with your care team and give yourself time to determine what the right choice is for you.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with common side effects and make a plan for treating them. Injections can be particularly stressful to navigate, so take time reviewing the techniques. As an Alto customer, you’ll have personalized videos for each injectable medication in your protocol in the app.

Reducing stress and building a support system

Be mindful of your emotional and mental well-being throughout your fertility journey and make a plan for reducing stress. Don’t hesitate to lean on your friends and family for support — especially those who have gone through the IVF journey themselves — but remember, too, that sharing your decision to pursue IVF is a personal choice.

A pharmacy partner for your fertility journey

Fertility treatment can be a challenging journey, but Alto is with you every step of the way. We offer same-day hand delivery of your medications and fertility resources like personalized injection guide videos and access to fertility-trained pharmacists.

Interested in learning more about how Alto can support your treatment? Request a price quote online or reach out through secure in-app messaging.

Staying on track with treatment and fully benefiting from a medication entails more than simply filling a prescription. It requires patients to take an active role in their health journeys, with education, clinical monitoring, and side effect management all necessary for proper drug utilization.

How Alto’s High-Touch Model Supports Patient Engagement

Pharmacists are an invaluable healthcare resource for those with complex treatment plans. Unfortunately, the traditional retail and mail-order models fail to maximize the possibilities of pharmacy care, without opportunities for ongoing engagement with patients. Not only are retail pharmacists often inundated with many tasks, it’s difficult for patients to discuss their health in a crowded store with a line of other customers behind them. And patients receiving their medication by mail often have limited visibility into delivery details or difficulty connecting with the pharmacy team. 

Alto Pharmacy offers a supported and convenient prescription journey at every step. We ensure that our patients have the information they need to get started with specialty medications and feel confident about their care. In addition to providing a simple onboarding experience, we have a team with robust clinical expertise and a high-touch model that allows patients to easily benefit from it.

We are also expanding our reach to fertility patients through our new nationwide* mail-order offering. Patients who receive fertility medications through mail-order experience the same convenience and support as those we serve via local courier delivery, with seamless onboarding, easy and supported medication management, and access to experts. 

And with an integrated and customizable tech stack — including both our proprietary pharmacy management software and our patient app — there are many ways for partners to provide additional engagement and supplement other support programs.

Here’s how Alto’s model enhances medication education and gives you, as a partner, the opportunity to more deeply engage our shared patients.

Alto offers a supportive and simple patient onboarding experience with proactive multichannel communication. We give patients a welcome text or call within 60 minutes of receiving their prescription, guiding them through their first order. Those who need to transfer an existing prescription to Alto can do so within minutes in our app.

If more information is necessary to fill a prescription, we make sure that patients and providers are both fully in the loop. We keep the patient informed at every step of the billing process, offering support with prior authorizations as needed. Through Alto Connect, our free communications portal for providers, clinical teams can view active medication details and quickly understand when additional steps are required to fill a prescription.

Partner Opportunities to Supplement Patient Support

The majority of Alto patients use our app for intake, medication ordering, and delivery scheduling. Not only does this give patients control and convenience in managing their prescriptions, it provides opportunities for additional engagement from partners.

Our flexible technology capabilities allow for many possibilities, including in-app introductions to your medications. In this video, a specialist from our fertility team walks patients through injecting the Gonal-f® RFF Redi-ject® Pen.

Follow-Up and Improving the Patient Experience

Easy onboarding is just the beginning. Alto supports patients at every stage of the prescription journey so that they can get the most benefit from their medication. Our dedicated medication therapy management pharmacists, who focus entirely on disease state education and support for chronic conditions, proactively contact patients who take specialty medications to review their regimens.

We ask if they are experiencing any side effects and track all patient-reported outcomes. As a partner, you can have access to data and insights into your patients’ experience of your medications.

We’re also able to tailor a patient’s treatment to any titration schedule prescribed by their provider. In these cases, we inform the patient of this schedule and change in medication dosage at every step of the treatment.

We see our NPS of 88 as an attestation of our patients’ love and commitment to both Alto and their health. 

Choose Alto Pharmacy for your limited distribution network

Alto’s end-to-end dispensing model is specifically built for specialty and specialty lite products. To learn more about partnering with us, reach out to partnerships@alto.com.

All third party trademarks (including logos and icons) referenced by Alto Pharmacy remain the property of their respective owners. Unless specifically identified as such, Alto’s use of third party trademarks does not indicate any relationship, sponsorship or endorsement between Alto and the owners of these trademarks.

Tech-Based, High-Touch Patient Engagement at Alto

Every year, June marks Men’s Health Month, a reminder of the importance of prevention and healthy lifestyle habits. This June, take a minute to recommit to your health — or encourage the men in your life to do so! To help you start, we’ve rounded up several of the top health risks for men, along with key preventative steps. Read more!

How to Honor Men’s Health Month | Alto Pharmacy

Every year, June marks Men’s Health Month, a reminder of the importance of prevention and healthy lifestyle habits. U.S. men have a shorter life expectancy than women and are less likely to go to the doctor. Many leading men’s health issues are preventable, and even small actions can have a big impact.

This June, take a minute to recommit to your health — or encourage the men in your life to do so! To help you start, we’ve rounded up several of the top health risks for men, along with key preventative steps.

And if you haven’t been to the doctor in a while, you’re far from alone, so try not to feel discouraged. The important thing is to move forward on healthier footing — there’s no time like the present to make some positive changes.

Heart disease is one of the most prevalent health issues in the country and a leading preventable cause of death for U.S. men. The condition develops gradually as plaque accumulates in the arteries, hardening these important blood vessels and impairing blood flow to the heart.

The good news? Many common heart disease risk factors are manageable, including high cholesterol, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, physical inactivity, and smoking. The first step to better heart health is to understand your personal risk factors. And that starts with — you guessed it — making that doctor’s appointment and staying up to date with screenings.

Your provider can advise you on the recommended frequency of key screenings based on your health history. In general, without accounting for other health factors, blood pressure screening is typically recommended at least once every 3 to 5 years for those under 39 and at least once a year for those 40 and older. Similarly, the CDC recommends cholesterol screenings at least once every 4 to 6 years as a baseline, but more frequent screenings may be necessary for those with additional heart health risks, like diabetes or obesity.

For more on heart-healthy living and heart disease prevention, read How to Prevent Heart Disease at Any Age.

While cancer mortality rates continue to decline among U.S. men, it remains a leading cause of death. Below are some of the most common cancers in men. In nearly all cases, early detection can allow for the most effective treatment approach and vastly improve prognosis, which is another reason to prioritize your health and build a relationship with a trusted provider.

Aside from skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in U.S. men. Your chances of developing it increase with age, and the majority of men with prostate cancer are over the age of 65. Other key risk factors include:

Race/ethnicity: Black men are more likely to both develop prostate cancer and to face more aggressive forms of it than men of other races.

Family history: Having an immediate relative who has had prostate cancer more than doubles your risk of developing it. The risk is higher if your relatives had it at a younger age.

With early detection, the survival rate of prostate cancer is high, so learn your risk and make informed decisions about screening. The American Cancer Society recommends discussing prostate cancer screening options with your provider at age 50 if you have an average risk and at age 45 if you have a high risk.

Colorectal cancer, which starts in the colon or rectum, is a common cancer in both men and women and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. Screening is recommended for all adults from ages 45 to 75. There are a variety of screening options, including stool tests and several types of colonoscopies. Speak with your provider about your options and the recommended frequency of screenings based on your personal and family health history. 

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in U.S. men and the leading cause of cancer deaths in the country. Delayed diagnoses factor heavily into the high mortality rate — the five-year survival rate is about 60% when the disease is confined to one lung, but the majority of cases are diagnosed after it has spread to both lungs or other organs.

Lung cancer screening is recommended for anyone with a high risk, including individuals with a history of heavy smoking who are between the ages of 50-80.

While smoking contributes to the majority of lung cancer cases, there are additional risk factors to be mindful of, such as exposure to secondhand smoke, radon, asbestos, or other carcinogens.

Men are both more likely to develop melanoma — the most serious type of skin cancer — and more likely to die from it than women. Fortunately, there are many ways to limit your exposure to UV rays and lower your risk of skin cancer.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 every day you spend outside. If you plan to be in the sun for long stretches of time, opt for an SPF of 30 or higher. Make sure you’re using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

Additionally, check your skin regularly for potential issues. If you see anything new, changing, or unusual, schedule an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible. Here are common signs of skin cancer to watch for:

A skin growth that increases in size and appears pearly, transparent, tan, brown, black, or multicolored

A mole, birthmark, or brown spot that increases in size or thickness, changes color or texture, or is bigger than a pencil eraser

A spot or sore that continues to itch, hurt, crust, scab, or bleed

An open sore that does not heal within three weeks

Even if you don’t see any new or unusual skin growths, be sure to visit the dermatologist at least once a year as part of your preventative care. 

As you prioritize your overall wellness, remember to account for your mental health, too. It’s estimated that more than 6 million men in the U.S. experience depression. While the condition affects all genders, men are less likely than women to acknowledge symptoms and seek treatment.

Mental health disorders like depression are medical conditions. Not only is there no shame in getting the support you need to feel your best, it takes strength to speak openly with a provider about your mental health.

Here are some common symptoms of depression to watch for: 

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

Feelings of low self-worth, guilt, or hopelessness

If you are having thoughts of suicide, need emotional support, or are concerned for a loved one, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Take charge of your health and wellness all year round

To live your healthiest life, take an active role in your well-being year round, not just during Men’s Health Month. That means learning more about your risk for men’s top health issues, staying up to date with recommended screenings, and prioritizing healthy lifestyle choices. Most men’s health issues are preventable or treatable, but staying proactive is key.

At Alto, a pharmacist is your partner in health. Our team of patient care pharmacists is available to chat whenever questions come up. Reach out any time via in-app messaging.

This June, take a minute to recommit to your health — or encourage the men in your life to do so! To help you start, we’ve rounded up several of the top health risks for men, along with key preventative steps. Read more!

How to Honor Men’s Health Month

Treatment for high cholesterol varies by individual. While some people are able to manage their cholesterol levels with lifestyle changes like exercise and diet alone, others need medication to lower their risk for heart health issues.

When Is Medication Necessary to Manage Cholesterol?

It’s common to have concerns about beginning treatment with medication, but remember that taking cholesterol-lowering medication is normal: more than 40 million U.S. adults take statins, the first-line medication for high cholesterol. And if you have high cholesterol, the most important thing is working with your doctor to determine what you need to live your healthiest life.

Below, we explain more about different cholesterol treatment options and when it may be necessary to take medication.

Before we dive in, let’s review the basics about cholesterol.

Cholesterol is a lipid — a soft, waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in your bloodstream and in your cells. There are two types: low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). LDL is also called “bad cholesterol” because it can build up on the walls of your blood vessels, increasing your risk of a heart attack or stroke. HDL is considered “good cholesterol” because it can help remove LDL cholesterol from your body. When we say high cholesterol, we are typically referring to a person’s levels of LDL cholesterol.

Triglycerides are another type of lipid that your doctor will monitor. Like LDL cholesterol, they can accumulate in your blood vessels and are associated with heart health issues. Total cholesterol is a measure of all three components: LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

While the exact definition of “healthy” cholesterol may vary by individual, these are some general guidelines.

A healthy range for total cholesterol is typically considered to be less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

A healthy range for HDL cholesterol is typically considered to be higher than 40 mg/dL for men and higher than 50 mg/dL for women.

A healthy range for LDL cholesterol is typically considered to be less than 100 mg/dL.

A healthy range for triglycerides is typically considered to be less than 150 mg/dL.

It is possible to have high triglycerides without having high LDL cholesterol levels. There are medications that specifically target triglycerides while high-intensity statins can lower both LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. 

Lifestyle changes that support healthy cholesterol levels

The following lifestyle practices can help you manage your cholesterol and triglycerides and are important even for those who take cholesterol-lowering medication.

Regular exercise: Moderate physical activity can help lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, or about 30 minutes of moderate to intense exercise each day.

Diet: Certain types of food can increase your LDL cholesterol. Try to limit your consumption of saturated fats (common sources include red meat and full-fat dairy products) and avoid trans fats, also known as partially hydrogenated oils, as much as possible. On the other hand, unsaturated fats (olive oil, canola oil, and tree nuts); omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, mackerel, herring, and tuna); and soluble fiber (beans, peas, lentils, oats, and whole grains), can support healthy cholesterol levels.

Smoking cessation: If you have high cholesterol, quitting smoking can help lower both your cholesterol levels and your overall risk for heart disease. 

Healthy alcohol consumption: If you drink, limiting your alcohol intake can help you manage your cholesterol, as heavy drinking can increase your cholesterol levels. The CDC recommends two alcoholic drinks per day for men and one for women.

When does a doctor prescribe cholesterol-lowering medication?

High cholesterol is one of the most common risk factors for heart disease. Effective cholesterol treatment can lower your risk for cardiovascular health issues, including a heart attack or stroke.

While statins were once considered exclusively cholesterol-lowering medications, we have learned more about their overall heart health benefits in recent years, and they are increasingly prescribed as a heart disease risk-reducing medication. Your doctor may prescribe a medication from this class even if your overall cholesterol numbers are in a healthy range.

When developing recommendations for cholesterol treatment, your doctor will consider a variety of health factors to assess your overall heart health, including the following.

While the exact definition of “healthy” cholesterol levels may vary by individual, a healthy range for LDL cholesterol is typically considered to be less than 100 mg/dL. If your LDL cholesterol is over 190 mg/dL, your doctor may recommend medication. 

Treatment plans account for other heart disease risk factors in addition to high cholesterol. For example, if you have diabetes — which can double your risk for heart disease and stroke — or another key risk factor, you may need to supplement lifestyle changes with medication even if your cholesterol is below the 190 mg/dL threshold.

There are a variety of causes of high cholesterol, including lifestyle and health factors as well as genetics. People with a family history of high cholesterol often need medication, since lifestyle changes alone are less likely to lower cholesterol levels.

When making recommendations for treatment, your doctor may use a tool called a cardiac risk calculator, which assesses your chances of developing heart health issues based on your personal health history. Those with a higher score may be more likely to need cholesterol-lowering medication. 

Is medication always a first-line treatment?

In some cases, a doctor will recommend cholesterol-lowering medication after first exploring lifestyle changes. Other times, medication is the best option for first-line treatment based on an individual’s health history and risk for heart disease. If your provider decides to start treatment with medication first, it doesn’t mean that you have failed to take care of your health on your own. Rather, it gives you an opportunity to keep your heart as strong as possible. 

How will my doctor pick the right medication for me?

Treatment for high cholesterol and/or triglycerides varies by individual, and there is no one best medication. Your doctor will consider several factors when recommending a medication, including:

Your overall heart health and risk for cardiovascular issues

Other medications you take and potential interactions or side effects

The medication’s lowest effective dose — higher-intensity statins can reduce lipid levels at a lower dose than other medications

Whether you’re targeting LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, or both

There are a variety of medications for high LDL cholesterol and/or triglycerides, and it may take time for you and your doctor to determine the best treatment for your needs. Keep in mind that each person’s response to medication is unique. If you know someone who had side effects from one medication, it doesn’t mean that you will have the same experience.

What if my cholesterol medication causes side effects?

Like most medications, many commonly prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications have the potential for side effects. They are typically mild. Fortunately, there are a variety of medication options to consider. Remember, too, that in most cases, the benefits of a cholesterol medication far outweigh the potential risks.

Statins, the most common cholesterol medication, are often the starting point of cholesterol treatment with medication. Commonly prescribed statins include:

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