[flowardnut]

I've got high cholesterol from both parents -- when I was first tested (around 25), my total cholesterol was ~250, my HDLs were < 20. I had ran multiple half marathons that year, and I was eating rather well.

My doctor asked me to try cutting cholesterol out of my diet, and it helped remarkably. I went vegan for quite awhile, and added some foods that help with HDL. The next time I got checked, they were amazing.

I've since added some cheese/eggs/fish back into my diet, but I try to keep it low. I hover around 200, with pretty decent HDLs.

Genetic testing showed I (may) have some genetic issues around cholesterol recycling, so it's not a one-size-fits-all thing.

[virtuallynathan]

Yea, you can have issues with NPC1L1 or ABCG5/G8 which will impact cholesterol/plant sterol absorption or excretion in the gut. If you are a hyperabsorber, you may want to check your plant sterol levels (xenosterols), as they can lead to health issues.

What is your HDL now?