[kyleb]

I don't necessarily buy into the argument that cholesterol is not bad, but I do understand that eliminating it or even reducing it can be impossible for many people (who then go on to live full, healthy lives). A co-worker of mine at a dotcom company 5 years ago was diagnosed with high cholesterol levels and went on an all-vegetarian diet (minus grilled chicken and whitefish), ran 5 miles every other day, cut out all caloric drinks except morning orange juice, ate tons of fibrous food, and supplemented with multivitamins and Lipitor. After six months his cholesterol... went UP.

OP,

You should look into a weightloss program and long distance running. That will help to build cardiovascular strength.