Cholesterol has a bad reputation. But, it’s actually an essential part of how your body functions: it plays a key role in hormone, vitamin D and bile production, cell repair and energy metabolism. As we move through midlife, changes in hormones, weight and metabolism can influence cholesterol levels – sometimes quietly, sometimes noticeably. Understanding these changes is an important part of supporting your long-term metabolic health.

Your gut microbiome does far more than aid digestion. Understanding the gut–heart connection opens possibilities for improving heart health.

Cholesterol is often painted as the villain in the narrative of heart health, but the reality is nuanced. Here, I will explain what...