I recently had a check-up because I turned 70 and was feeling tired and putting on weight, even though I've always had a low-fat diet.

My doctor found I had high cholesterol and low thyroid levels. My only medication is for high blood pressure. Why would my cholesterol suddenly be high?

Hypothyroidism or an under-functioning thyroid gland is strongly associated with unhealthy cholesterol levels. One study found that hypothyroidism is second only to poor dietary habits as a cause of high cholesterol. Once your thyroid condition is treated, the cholesterol level should start to come down, so hold off any decisions about talking cholesterol lowering meditation until your thyroid function is under control.

Hypothyroidism can also increase your blood pressure, so you'll need to have that monitored and possible reduce the medication as the thyroid situation improves.