Hello. Thank you for your question and welcome to HCM. I carefully read your query. Both cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol are independent and recognized risk factors for coronary artery disease. Although a little bit high, I would consider these total cholesterol levels as borderliıne high. Many studies have been carried out and there is a variation between countries and clinics about what is a normal range of cholesterol. For example, our clinic accepts it as high when it is above 220 mg/dL. Since the LDL-cholesterol figures are those that you provided, I would be keen to try and fight those levels with dietary and lifestyle modifications, for a period of two or three months. If these levels of cholesterol will still be high even though you have been pedantic about the diet İ am going to provide, then we can discuss for you to start on a cholesterol-loweriıng medication. I would recommen the diet and lifestyle changes as follows: - quit smokiıng. Even though you smoke a small number of cigarettes, keeping to expose to its deleterious effects can help keep alive inflammations elsewhere in the body. - eat less red meat. and more fish, chicken and other poultry. You can eat red meat only once a week. - low salt - rich in fibres - green leafy vegetables and fruit up to 300 g a day. - Alcohol consumption should be reduced to a maximum of 30 g ethanol a day (i.e. two beers, or a glass of wine, or a shot of heavy alcohol, a day). - At least 60 minutes of physical activity a day, such as brisk walking, joggıng, swimming, biking, going to the gym, etc. I hope I was helpful with my answer. Three months later you should run a test for total cholesterol and LDL and HDL fracitons. Feel free to ask agaın. King regards, Dr. Meriton