I am 62 and was shocked to find that, at 7.6, my cholesterol is seriously high. My GP prescribed statins, but I am worried about side-effects and have asked for two months to try to reduce cholesterol by other means. My diet is healthy, I am fairly active and not overweight, I don't smoke and rarely drink alcohol.

Cholesterol is necessary to maintain cell membranes, synthesise hormones and for nerve function; a level of 5.2 is considered normal. It is carried in the blood by two types of protein: low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). There is an increased risk of heart attack if total cholesterol and LDL is raised, but that risk is reduced the greater the amount of HDL there is compared with LDL. Daily supplements of vitamins C and E and garlic raise the HDL level and can be taken alongside cholesterol-lowering drugs. High cholesterol is not only linked to saturated fats and lifestyle: the quantity of enzymes that make cholesterol is also crucial, and that depends on genes. Ask your GP about two new alternative treatments. Sterols, which are found in plants, are similar in structure to cholesterol and lower levels by competing with it for absorption in the gut - try SterolVite from Biocare (0121-433 3727). CholestSafe, from Victoria Health (0800 389 8195), contains red yeast rice, policosanols from the wax of the sugar cane plant and the liver herbs guggul and artichoke. Clinical trials have found red yeast rice and policosanols reduce cholesterol and LDL by over 30% within eight weeks.

I am about to finish a 48-week treatment for hepatitis C with regulated Interferon and Roberferon. What natural remedies would now help?

Assuming you have overcome the virus, natural treatments would aim to improve immune function and aid regeneration of damaged liver cells. Adopt a simple, wholefood, high-fibre diet with green superfoods, carrot and beetroot juice, and plenty of pure water; avoid saturated fats, alcohol, drugs (even painkillers), sugar and processed foods. High doses of vitamins C, B12 and E, liver and thymus extracts, phosphatidyl choline (found in lecithin) and milk thistle and liquorice have been shown to help. However, first consult your GP and a natural healthcare professional.

· Emma Mitchell is a natural health therapist. Before following Emma's recommendations, you should consult your GP about any medical problems or special health conditions. Send your questions to Wellbeing, Guardian Weekend, 119 Farringdon Road, London EC1R 3ER. Email: ask.emma@theguardian.com.