High cholesterol is a condition that many people, unfortunately, suffer through even without knowing it. Not only that, it increases the risk of conditions like stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, and coronary heart disease, among others.
Here’s what you need to do to keep those levels at bay…
Drop A Few Pounds
Losing extra pounds and maintaining a healthy weight is the first step in lowering cholesterol levels in the blood. Recent research has discovered that doing so also reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases caused by high cholesterol levels.
Of course, the best way to achieve that is…
Eat A Better Diet
Opt for a diet rich in healthier fats and soluble fiber like nuts, omega-3-rich seafood, legumes, lean meats, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Instead of using salt, try using herbs and spices like ground pepper, paprika, and ginger to add flavor to your food.
Too much of a good thing can be bad…
Limit Your Comfort Food
Try limiting the consumption of your go-to comfort foods like potato/corn chips, processed meats, fast foods, soft drinks, and full-fat dairy beverages since these contribute highly to increased cholesterol levels in the blood.
Get up on your feet and…
Do Some Exercise
Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day can help burn calories and reduce one’s weight. Simply starting with moderate intensity exercises like brisk walking, running, and water aerobics can already lower one’s cholesterol levels significantly.
If you need the motivation to quit the cigs, this is it, bud…
Quit Smoking
Smoking thickens the bad (LDL) cholesterol in the arteries allowing it to build up more and impede easy blood flow. Quitting smoking habits can reduce the risk of possible blood clots and boosts your good cholesterol (HDL) levels.
If you can, drop it all together…
Drink In Moderation
Drinking alcohol can be fun and does have its benefits, but only in strict moderation. Unbridled drinking raises triglycerides and cholesterol levels in the blood, eventually affecting the liver, so it’s best to drink sparsely or even none of it all.
Not all pills have to be bitter…
Take Medication
Most physicians prescribe medications to reduce LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. Expect some occasional side effects while taking these prescriptions.
Some boosters should do the trick…
Take Supplements
Over-the-counter supplements may do well to maintain your cholesterol levels. According to nutritionists, Vitamin B3, plant sterols, soluble fibers, and omega-3 supplements are especially promising and recommendable.
You can never go wrong with Mother Nature’s arsenal…
Herbal Remedies
Never underestimate the power of your trusty spice cabinet. Various studies have pointed out the properties of holy basil, fenugreek seeds, and garlic in significantly lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body.
Even the mind needs a detox…
Manage Stress
Meditation, according to one study, can significantly lower cholesterol levels in the body. The same was said by Indian researchers who have observed the positive effects of yoga programs on people with increased cholesterol levels.
