Following a lifestyle that decreases LDL (low-density lipoprotein) and increases HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is the primary path to lower cholesterol.

Women who did not develop metabolic syndrome typically had less belly fat and higher levels of "good" high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which unlike "bad" cholesterol is protective.

Monounsaturated fat helps lower LDL and raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the "good" cholesterol.