How Much Can I Reduce LDL in Six Months?

Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are the molecules responsible for depositing fatty cholesterol particles in human arteries. Levels of LDL below 130 are considered low-risk for cardiovascular disease; below 100 is optimal. The higher the number, the greater the risk; but LDL numbers are not the only factor in risk assessment. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) transport cholesterol away from arteries, so the ratio of LDL to HDL is also very important. Lowering LDL levels with dietary changes, exercise and medications is not difficult. Doctors generally advise patients about lifestyle improvements and follow-up in three to six months.

Statins

• Medications known as statins effectively lower LDL levels in patients who need them. According to Dr. Robert Eckel, past president of the American Heart Association, who was quoted in a recent U.S. News and World Report article, a 10 percent reduction in LDL can be expected from a six-month course of a low statin dose. Higher doses can drop LDL as much as 55 percent.

  Elevations in HDL have been insignificant from statin use, and side effects of muscle weakness, kidney impairment and even death in some patients prompt doctors to reserve these medications for those who have been unable to lower LDL levels by other means, and in whom the benefits of medication outweigh the risks.

Supplements

• Niacin, or vitamin B3, causes an uncomfortable hot flushing sensation in most people, so it should be taken with meals, and higher doses need to be reached slowly. The good news about Niacin is that it not only lowers LDL up to 20 percent in six months of regular use, but according to the Mayo Clinic it also raises HDL levels by up to 35 percent. Liver disease may be a contraindication for therapy with niacin, your doctor can determine if it is appropriate for you.

Diet and Exercise

• Heart-healthy exercise, building up to at least 30 minutes of a vigorous workout three or more times per week, is associated with slight increases in HDL levels and can help with weight loss, which significantly lowers LDL. Hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils, or trans fats, which are created when vegetable oils are solidified (think margarine) and used in fried and snack foods, should be eliminated from the diet because they significantly raise bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol. Trans fats have been banned in California and New York City restaurants because of their negative impact on health.

  The American Heart Association recommends that no more than 7 percent of total daily calories should be in the form of saturated fats. Dietary saturated fats--found in meat and dairy products, and in tropical oils--raise both HDL and LDL levels. Replacing fatty foods with high-fiber beans and oats, which have been shown to reduce LDL, is a good cholesterol-lowering strategy, according to The Washington Post.

  The amount that LDL can be lowered by restriction of saturated fats and hydrogenate oils is dependent upon the range of difference between past dietary habits and new healthy practices. Dietary changes potentially can lower LDL twice as much as medications can achieve, and there are no side effects to a healthier diet.