At Everest Pharmacy, we regularly meet patients who come in after receiving their blood test results and ask the same question: “Is a cholesterol of 5.7 high?” It’s an understandable concern, as cholesterol levels are directly linked to heart health. However, the number on your blood test doesn’t always tell the full story. To understand what a cholesterol level of 5.7 really means, it’s important to know what cholesterol is, how it works in your body, and what the different parts of your test results represent.

If you’ve recently had blood testing and want to interpret your results, this guide will help you understand what they mean and what you can do next.

Understanding Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in your blood. It plays an essential role in the body, helping to build cell membranes and produce certain hormones. While it’s often thought of as harmful, cholesterol itself isn’t the problem. Issues arise when the balance between good and bad cholesterol is disrupted, leading to the build-up of fatty deposits in the arteries.

Your cholesterol level is influenced by factors such as diet, exercise, genetics, and age. Too much of the wrong type can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke, which is why regular testing and understanding your numbers are so important.

What Does a Cholesterol Level of 5.7 Mean?

In the UK, total cholesterol is measured in millimoles per litre (mmol/L). A total cholesterol level below 5 mmol/L is generally considered ideal, while anything above that may suggest an increased risk for cardiovascular issues.

A result of 5.7 mmol/L is slightly above the recommended range. This doesn’t necessarily mean you have a serious problem, but it may indicate that you should review your diet, lifestyle, or family history with a healthcare professional.

It’s also essential to remember that total cholesterol alone isn’t enough to assess your heart health. To get the full picture, you need to look at the breakdown of your results, including LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.

Understanding the Breakdown of Your Cholesterol Results

Your blood test report will usually include several measurements. Here’s what they mean:

1. Total Cholesterol

This is the combined amount of all cholesterol in your blood, including both LDL and HDL. A reading of 5.7 mmol/L is considered borderline high, so your doctor or pharmacist may recommend monitoring it over time.

2. LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein)

Often called “bad” cholesterol, LDL carries cholesterol to the cells, but when levels are too high, it can build up in the artery walls and restrict blood flow. Ideally, LDL should be below 3 mmol/L. If your LDL level is higher, it’s a sign to make dietary and lifestyle adjustments.

3. HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein)

Known as “good” cholesterol, HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it to the liver for disposal. Higher HDL levels are protective against heart disease. An HDL level above 1 mmol/L is generally good, while levels below this may increase cardiovascular risk.

4. Triglycerides

Triglycerides are another type of fat found in the blood. They’re produced from calories your body doesn’t immediately use and are stored for later energy. High levels can contribute to heart disease, particularly when combined with low HDL and high LDL. Ideally, triglycerides should be below 1.7 mmol/L.

By examining these values together, healthcare professionals can assess your overall risk and create a plan to help you manage or improve your cholesterol levels.

What Can Affect Your Cholesterol Level?

Several factors can influence cholesterol readings, including:

Diet: Eating too many saturated fats, processed foods, and sugars can raise LDL levels.

Exercise: Regular physical activity helps boost HDL and reduce LDL.

Smoking: Tobacco reduces good cholesterol and damages blood vessels.

Alcohol: Excessive drinking can increase triglycerides and total cholesterol.

Genetics: Some people naturally produce more cholesterol due to hereditary conditions.

Even if your diet and lifestyle are generally healthy, genetics can still play a significant role in your results. That’s why ongoing monitoring and professional advice are key.

How to Manage a Cholesterol Level of 5.7

If your cholesterol is slightly above the healthy range, small changes can often make a big difference.

• –> Choose foods rich in fibre, such as oats, beans, and fruits.
• –> Replace saturated fats with healthier options like olive oil, nuts, and avocados.
• –> Incorporate regular exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, into your week.
• –> Reduce processed foods, sugary drinks, and fried foods.
• –> Avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake.

Your pharmacist or GP may also recommend a follow-up blood test after a few months to check whether your levels have improved.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your cholesterol remains high despite lifestyle changes, or if you have other risk factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, your healthcare provider may suggest further investigation or medication. Statins are one of the most commonly prescribed treatments for managing cholesterol levels safely.

At Everest Pharmacy, we offer private blood testing, making it easy to monitor your cholesterol and other key health markers. Our team can interpret your results, provide personalised advice, and help you make positive changes for your long-term health.

Visit Everest Pharmacy for Professional Private Blood Testing

A cholesterol level of 5.7 is slightly above the ideal range but not necessarily a cause for alarm. It’s an opportunity to make small but meaningful adjustments to your diet and lifestyle while keeping an eye on your health.

If you want to understand your results more clearly or track your progress, visit Everest Pharmacy. Our convenient and professional blood testing services help you stay informed and in control of your wellbeing. Regular testing, combined with professional guidance, can help you maintain a healthy balance and protect your heart for the future.

Reach out or book your blood test today:

This blog was written on behalf of Everest Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.