Natural Ways to Lower Cholesterol

Cholesterol which is considered 'bad' for our health is the LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. This one, when catches a rapid growth in the blood, it oxidizes and creates plaque. This is turn, makes the blood vessels impregnated with calcium salts and thus, increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. LDL should remain under 130 mg per deciliter. On the other hand, there is also what is known as the 'good' cholesterol in the body which helps in getting rid of the LDL. It is the HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol and should remain over 60 mg per deciliter.

Natural ways to lower cholesterol are specially beneficial for people who are not recommended to take certain kinds of drugs; due to their age, medical history or the like. When combined with regular exercise regimen, such natural methods are more than just being good and efficient in bringing down cholesterol levels by an appreciable amount.

Tips On Reducing Cholesterol Levels Without Any Drugs

Avoid saturated fats and refined sugars and instead, go for food items rich in fiber such as whole grains. Refrain from a high-sugar diet such as taking sodas and white sugars. These substances are converted into fats and sugars in the body which ultimately trigger the increase in the cholesterol levels. Keep the consumption of meat to a small amount and include foods that lower cholesterol. These include avocados, almonds, olive oil, soy beans, garlic, shiitake mushrooms and chili peppers. Apples, oat bran, soy protein, beans (kidney, pintos, black, navy, etc.), onions, fatty fish and flax seed also do wonders in fighting off high cholesterol. All such foods help in lowering the level of LDL cholesterol in the body (known as the 'bad' cholesterol) and sometimes raise the HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, which is the 'good' one. Avoid trans-fat products such as commercially prepared baked goods and most fried foods, as these foods tend to raise the LDL levels in the body. Eat more of broiled, boiled, steamed, grilled and baked food instead of the fried ones.

Include high quantity of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet and get your cholesterol down. Rich sources are fish such as salmon, albacore tuna and sardines. Walnuts, flaxseed, kidney beans and canola oil also provide good amount of these fatty acids to lower cholesterol. Supplements of vitamins A, C, E, minerals and calcium also help.

Apart from the foods, nutritional supplements also help manage high cholesterol levels naturally. Some of these supplements which have been tested to be effective include policosanol, guggulipid extract, green tea extract and beta sitosterol. These nutrients are not only know to reduce cholesterol naturally and effectively, but have also been found to be possessing better qualities than prescribed cholesterol medications.

An active body is a healthy body, while a sedentary one is not. Exercises help in the proper functioning of the body and aid to the attempts which you are taking to lower your cholesterol levels. A jog, brisk walk, cycling, any outdoor game or any kind of light cardiovascular exercise are all which the body needs to improve circulation and help in fighting off high cholesterol levels.

The use of medicines to decrease high cholesterol may yield quick results for some, but also undesired side effects for many. Following a method which is void of any medications or drugs, is always effective and safe, though may require some time in delivering the results. So, opt for the natural remedies as described above and stay healthy, wealthy and wise.