How to Lower Cholesterol

Published on: 6 December, 2010 by:

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Cholesterol is a compound produced by our body which is a combination of fats and other substances. Though major portion of the cholesterol comes from the body, some part of it also comes from our diet.

LDL cholesterol is the “bad” cholesterol associated with fat deposits in arteries leading to cardiac strokes and other heart problems. HDL is the good cholesterol and is necessary to maintain the right balance of total cholesterol in the body.

People with high LDL levels need to bring their cholesterol under control to prevent health disorders. This can be easily achieved by making lifestyle changes. This article has simple steps to bring down your cholesterol levels to lead a healthy life.

Difficulty Level

Moderate

Instructions

  • The first step in eliminating bad cholesterol is to make changes to your diet. If you are eating a diet rich in saturated fats, switch to a diet that is rich in “good” fats. Red meat and high-fat dairy products contribute to the saturated fat accumulation in the body, leading to cholesterol. Try taking a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids by consuming more fish, nuts, etc. Omega-3 fatty acids can help lower cholesterol and is considered a vital nutrient for the healthy functioning of the heart and the circulatory system.
  • Try to increase the intake of high-fiber foods in your diet. High-fiber foods such as beans, whole grain cereals, etc. help reduce the cholesterol levels in your body significantly. Also, consume large quantities of fruits and vegetables. The rich anti-oxidants in fruits and vegetables help fight cholesterol and are good for your overall health.
  • Try to lead an active lifestyle by taking to some form of regular exercise for at least 30-40 minutes daily. Physical activity will lower cholesterol levels and fat deposits in the body.
  • Have a health check-up done every year along with a detailed lipid profile to know your cholesterol levels. Very high levels of LDL may require medication. Hence, it is best to get your cholesterol levels checked to avoid any risks of sudden cardiac strokes.
  • There are studies that link high cholesterol levels to increased stress. Hence, try to relax and keep your stress levels low. This will positively impact your overall health in addition to keeping your cholesterol levels under control.
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