Cholesterol

Understand cholesterol risks and how to lower levels, prevent heart disease, and make dietary changes. See information on cholesterol and heart health.

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Cholesterol and lipid tests

Read about cholesterol (or lipid profile) blood tests, which look at cholesterol and other fats in your blood, and what the results mean.

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Statins

Statins are medicines used to lower cholesterol and are recommended for people at risk of cardiovascular disease. Here's how statins work.

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Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of blood fat usually measured with cholesterol. Find out about the impact of high triglyceride levels and how to lower them.

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Dietary fats

The body needs some fats and oils as part of a balanced diet. But some fats (unsaturated fats) are healthier than others (saturated and trans fats).

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Metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of risk factors that raise the risk of stroke, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Find out its symptoms and treatments.

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Healthy food swaps

Need help to meet your health goals such as reducing your blood pressure or cholesterol? See healthdirect’s list of healthier food alternatives.

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Healthy heart diet

Discover important strategies for a healthy heart diet. Learn what to eat, what to avoid and how you can maintain a healthy heart lifestyle.

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Manage your health in your 40s

Be aware of the health conditions that affect people in their 40s. Learn how to reduce your risks and manage your health at this stage of life.

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Mediterranean diet

Health benefits of the Mediterranean diet include a lower risk of cancer, heart disease, diabetes and more. Read more on what foods to include.

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Blood tests A-Z

From the fasting blood glucose test to the prostate (PSA) test, there are many kinds of blood tests. Browse the index and learn how to prepare for your test.

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Diabetic retinopathy

Discover how diabetes can slowly damage your retina (the back of your eye). This can lead to diabetic retinopathy and vision problems.

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Manage your health in your 70s and older

If you are 70 or older, you should be aware of common health conditions and their signs. Learn some ways to help manage your health as you age.

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Manage your health in your 60s

If you are in your 60s, you should be aware of some common health conditions. Find out their symptoms, how to prevent them and stay healthy.

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Manage your health in your 50s

Be aware of the health conditions that can affect people in their 50s. Learn how to reduce your risks and manage your health at this stage of life.

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Coronary heart disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as 'coronary artery disease', causes angina and heart attacks. Learn how to reduce your risk of CHD.

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Health checks for women

A guide to routine health checks and tests for women, including mammogram, bowel cancer screening, blood pressure and more.

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Heart attack

Acting fast when you notice the warning signs of a heart attack could save a life. Here's how to recognise the symptoms of a heart attack.

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Protein

Getting your daily protein is essential to a healthy diet, especially at certain times of your life when your cells need to grow or repair.

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Peripheral vascular disease

Peripheral vascular disease can cause pain and cramps in the legs when walking. Find out about the cause and how it is treated.

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High-fibre foods and diet

High-fibre foods can reduce your risk of disease and keep your digestive system healthy. Find out how much fibre you need, and how to get it.

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Gallstones

Gallstones are pebble-like masses in your gallbladder that can cause pain, fever or jaundice. Find out about gallstone symptoms, treatment and causes.

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Vascular dementia

Vascular dementia is caused by problems with the blood supply to the brain. Find out about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of vascular dementia.

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Erectile dysfunction

Erectile dysfunction, or impotence, means problems getting or keeping an erection to have for intercourse. Learn more about causes and treatment.

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Should I be tested for heart disease?

Understanding heart disease risk can help you reduce your risk and protect your heart. Find out more about heart disease risk and heart disease tests.

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Heart attack symptoms: males vs females

Find out about the differences in heart attack symptoms between males and females, and about what can increase your risk of having a heart attack.

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The real reasons why soup is good for you

Get tips on how to make your soups even more nutritious and exciting this winter, and find out whether chicken soup can, in fact, cure the common cold.

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Pre-diabetes

Having pre-diabetes does not mean you will necessarily develop type 2 diabetes, but you will have a higher risk than if you had normal glucose levels.

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Stroke

A stroke is when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted. Learn the 'FAST' test for stroke symptoms, which can save a person's life.

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Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects many females in their reproductive years. Read about PCOS and your health.

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