Final answer:
An increase in HDL cholesterol is instrumental in reducing heart disease risk. Lifestyle changes, such as engaging in regular physical activity, and consuming a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and low in saturated and trans fats, are also crucial. Statins are medicines that can help lower cholesterol levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
To answer the question of what will lead to a reduction in heart disease risk, an increase in HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is known to be beneficial. HDL works to transport excess cholesterol to the liver for metabolism and removal from the bloodstream. This contrasts with LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which, when elevated, increases the risk of heart disease, as does increased fibrin, which can lead to blood clots. While recent studies have cast doubt on the singular importance of HDL and questioned the link between saturated fat and heart disease, maintaining balanced cholesterol levels is universally recognized as important for reducing heart disease risk.
The lifestyle choices that contribute to healthy heart function include regular physical activity, a diet low in saturated and trans fats, and high in dietary fiber and plant polyphenols. Adequate intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3s, is also recommended, as they can lower LDL and increase HDL cholesterol levels. Finally, statins are a class of medications that can lower cholesterol levels in the blood.