Alan Titchmarsh, the beloved Garden Force legend, has shared his health concerns, revealing that he takes medication to prevent the same issues that led to his father’s passing at just 62.
In an interview with The Times, the 75-year-old Classic FM presenter reflected on his well-being while celebrating a major milestone—his golden wedding anniversary with his wife, Alison, this year.
Discussing his physical ailments, Alan admitted to struggling with lower back pain and firmly ruled out any possibility of joining the popular BBC show Strictly Come Dancing. “I keep being asked to do Strictly, but Alison says my knees aren’t up to it,” he said.
He also revealed that he takes statins due to a family history of heart problems. “All the men in my family had heart trouble. My dad died when he was 62, so…” he trailed off, highlighting his concerns about his own health.
Alan further reflected on his health, saying, “I really try to avoid what we call in this household ‘the organ recital,’ but at 75, no matter what you do, parts of you start to wear out. My doctor once told me, ‘Remember, your prostate was never designed to last as long as you’re living. By the time you’re 70, you’ll be getting up twice a night.’”
Statins, the medication Alan takes, are a class of drugs that help lower cholesterol levels in the blood. They work by reducing the amount of cholesterol produced by the liver and aiding in its removal from the bloodstream. High cholesterol, often referred to as the “silent killer” due to its lack of symptoms, can significantly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. While lifestyle factors such as a high-fat diet, lack of exercise, obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption contribute to high cholesterol, genetics can also play a role.
Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels can be achieved through a balanced diet and regular exercise. However, some individuals, like Alan Titchmarsh, require medication such as statins to manage their cholesterol. Excess cholesterol can lead to blocked blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease or stroke. Since high cholesterol often has no symptoms, the only way to detect it is through a blood test.
In the interview, Alan also spoke about his love for gardening and its positive impact on his well-being. “It’s kept me sane,” he shared. “There’s such an emphasis on tragedy these days—whether environmental or human—that people lose their sense of proportion. But if you engage with your local community, volunteer, and connect with others, you’ll realize that 99 percent of the world, or 99 percent of the population, are good people.”
Symptoms of High Cholesterol
One of the most concerning aspects of high cholesterol is that it often has no noticeable symptoms. This is why it is commonly referred to as a “silent killer.” Many people may not realize they have high cholesterol until they undergo a routine blood test or experience a serious health event such as a heart attack or stroke.
However, in cases where cholesterol buildup becomes severe, individuals might experience the following indirect symptoms and complications:
- Chest Pain (Angina) – Cholesterol plaque can narrow the coronary arteries, leading to chest pain, especially during physical activity.
- Shortness of Breath – If cholesterol buildup blocks blood flow to the heart or lungs, it may cause difficulty breathing.
- Numbness or Weakness in Limbs – Poor circulation due to cholesterol deposits in the arteries may result in numbness, tingling, or weakness, particularly in the legs.
- Yellowish Deposits on Skin (Xanthomas) – Some individuals with extremely high cholesterol levels develop fatty deposits around the eyes, elbows, knees, or hands.
- Sudden Stroke or Heart Attack – A blockage in an artery due to cholesterol plaque can trigger life-threatening conditions.
Because high cholesterol does not always present noticeable symptoms, regular blood tests are crucial for early detection.
Causes of High Cholesterol
Several factors contribute to high cholesterol levels, including lifestyle choices, medical conditions, and genetic factors.
1. Unhealthy Diet
- Saturated Fats – Found in red meat, full-fat dairy products, fried foods, and processed snacks, saturated fats increase LDL (bad) cholesterol.
- Trans Fats – Present in packaged baked goods, fast food, and some margarine, trans fats raise bad cholesterol while lowering good cholesterol.
- High Sugar and Refined Carbohydrates – Excess sugar and refined carbs (such as white bread, pasta, and sweets) contribute to weight gain and high cholesterol.
2. Lack of Exercise
Regular physical activity helps raise HDL (good cholesterol) and lowers LDL (bad cholesterol). A sedentary lifestyle contributes to cholesterol buildup in the arteries.
3. Obesity or Being Overweight
Excess weight, especially around the abdomen, increases LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while lowering HDL cholesterol, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
4. Smoking and Excess Alcohol Consumption
- Smoking – Damages blood vessels, reduces HDL (good cholesterol), and increases LDL (bad cholesterol).
- Excess Alcohol – Leads to high triglyceride levels, which contribute to cholesterol-related complications.
5. Genetic Factors (Familial Hypercholesterolemia)
Some individuals inherit a genetic condition called familial hypercholesterolemia, which causes high cholesterol levels from an early age, increasing the risk of heart disease.
6. Medical Conditions
Certain health conditions can contribute to high cholesterol, including:
- Diabetes – High blood sugar damages artery walls and increases LDL cholesterol.
- Hypothyroidism – An underactive thyroid slows down metabolism, raising cholesterol levels.
- Kidney and Liver Diseases – These conditions can impact cholesterol regulation.
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) – Women with PCOS may experience high cholesterol due to hormonal imbalances.
Precautions and Prevention Strategies
Making lifestyle changes is the most effective way to prevent and manage high cholesterol. Here are some essential steps to lower cholesterol levels and maintain heart health:
1. Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet
- Eat More Fiber – Foods rich in soluble fiber (oats, beans, lentils, fruits, and vegetables) help lower LDL cholesterol.
- Increase Healthy Fats – Consume sources of healthy fats, such as:
- Olive oil
- Avocados
- Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
- Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel)
- Limit Saturated and Trans Fats – Reduce intake of fried foods, processed snacks, and full-fat dairy.
- Consume More Plant-Based Proteins – Include lentils, beans, tofu, and nuts in your diet instead of red meat.
2. Exercise Regularly
- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week (brisk walking, cycling, swimming).
- Strength training twice a week helps improve metabolism and cholesterol levels.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Losing even 5-10% of body weight can significantly lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. Quit Smoking
- Within weeks of quitting, HDL (good cholesterol) levels improve.
- Blood circulation and lung function enhance, reducing heart disease risk.
5. Limit Alcohol Consumption
- Moderate drinking (one drink per day for women, two for men) is acceptable.
- Excess alcohol raises triglycerides, increasing heart disease risk.
6. Manage Stress Levels
- Chronic stress may lead to unhealthy eating habits and cholesterol spikes.
- Engage in activities like meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or hobbies to reduce stress.
7. Monitor Cholesterol Levels Regularly
- Get a lipid profile test every 4-6 years (or more frequently if at risk).
- The test measures:
- Total cholesterol
- LDL (bad cholesterol)
- HDL (good cholesterol)
- Triglycerides
8. Consider Medications if Necessary
- If lifestyle changes are not enough, doctors may prescribe statins or other cholesterol-lowering drugs.
- Other medications include:
- Ezetimibe – Reduces cholesterol absorption in the intestine.
- PCSK9 inhibitors – Lower LDL levels for those with genetic conditions.