Does Elevated Cholesterol = Statin Bandwagon?

My brother recently got the news that his cholesterol is a little high.  And not being big on medications, he's looking for things he can do to lower his cholesterol naturally.  Do you have to jump right on the statin bandwagon when the doctor informs you your cholesterol's on the high side?  It's a judgment call.  You should always listen to your doctor, but there are some things you can do to naturally lower your cholesterol. 

#1 Eat more oatmeal.  Oatmeal acts like a sponge and soaks up bad cholesterol.

#2 Eat almonds, which contain Vitamin E and flavanoids, two things which help prevent plaque buildup. 

#3 Eat phytosterol-containing foods like fruits, seeds, nuts, and vegetable oils.  They block cholesterol absorption. 

#4 An apple a day does keep the doctor away.  Apples are rich in polyphenols, especially the skin.  These prevent plaque buildup.

#5 Eat more garlic.  Garlic keeps the liver from being able to make more cholesterol. 

#6 Eat flaxseeds.  Flaxseeds block the production of bad cholesterol (LDL), and help your body to get rid of cholesterol. 

#7 Be a bean eater.  Beans have a special fiber which ferments in the colon.  When bacteria eat the fiber and bean sugars, they form short-chain fatty acids, which prevent the liver from producing bad cholesterol. 

#8 Eat more soy.  Soy proteins contain phytoestrogens, which improve the liver's ability to get rid of cholesterol in your bloodstream.

#9 Exercise.  This speeds up the flow of blood, helping to keep your arteries free of plaque buildup.