Cholesterol is a key health indicator, reflecting how well the body metabolizes rich foods. A diet high in rich foods raises blood cholesterol, increasing the risk of heart attacks, strokes and certain cancers. Statins are a common treatment for high cholesterol, their widespread use coincided with shifting cholesterol guidelines, benefiting pharmaceutical companies. Learn the risks and benefits of statins and explore alternative treatments. The most effective way to lower cholesterol is by adopting a cholesterol-free, low-fat diet like the McDougall Program.