Cholesterol Removal

Cholesterol is an essential fatty lipid substance found in human cell membranes which helps synthesize hormones, bile acids and certain fat-soluble vitamins. Cholesterol originates mainly from liver production and from dietary intake, particularly dairy and protein sources such as poultry, meat and fish. Good cholesterol (HDL) is essential for building and maintaining membranes and regulating body temperatures. High levels of LDL cholesterol, however, particularly above 240 milligrams, can be unhealthy and are associated with heart disease and atherosclerosis. Cholesterol removal is easily addressed through a healthy diet and regular exercise, in addition to medication, as necessary.

Diet

• According to The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP), the first strategy for cholesterol removal is eating healthy foods that reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Healthy eating plans include making smart food choices and preparing food properly so that maximum nutrients are obtained without adding unnecessary fat, sugar and sodium. Eat lower-calorie, nutrient-rich foods with fiber, minerals, vitamins and and other nutrients. Some of the best foods to assist in cholesterol removal include cinnamon, ginger, garlic, cayenne pepper, olive oil, oats and oat bran, low fat proteins, vegetables, fruits, whole grains and fat-free or lower-fat dairy products. Eliminate trans fat and reduce foods high in cholesterol, with a goal of eating less than 300 mg each day.

  Eat less sugar and salt and drink alcohol only in moderation. The American Heart Association recommendations should be followed, with particular attention to proper portion sizes. Eating a variety of healthy foods makes it easier to control weight and lower blood pressure, which also assists in lowering cholesterol.

Exercise

• Exercise is an important part of a strategy to remove cholesterol from the body. Arterial cholesterol buildup, known in its advanced stages as Coronary Artery Disease (CAD), can be reduced by incorporating exercise of all kinds into a lifestyle. A yoga practice can help cope with many factors that cause CAD and will contribute to muscle strength, better breathing and circulation. Many other activities, including walking, swimming, jogging, cycling, dancing, skiing and weight training can elevate the heart rate and be instrumental in cholesterol removal. All physical activity can lead to a healthier body and heart. According to a report issued by the The American Heart Association (AHA), benefits of weight lifting or resistance training in a rhythmical manner, using slow to moderate controlled speed, alternating between upper and lower body workouts of a single set, two days each a week, can be very beneficial.

Vitamin Supplementation and Medication

• Recommended vitamin supplementation for cholesterol removal can include a soluble fiber remedy, since cholesterol binds to fiber, making it easy to excrete. Artichoke leaf extract contains cynarin, which produces bile and assists the system in evacuating cholesterol quickly. Another popular method for removing cholesterol is blocking it from the bloodstream by using plant stanols and stenols found naturally in some plants and as a supplement. Many products labeled as "heart healthy" contain sitostanol or beta-sitostanol to assist in removing cholesterol easily. Other supplements that aid in removing cholesterol include a balanced multivitamin, Vitamin C, Guggul, Shiitake, Reishi, Policosanol, Essential Fatty Acid (Omega Oils), CoQ10, grape seed extract and flax seed oil.

  Statin drugs are considered very effective for lowering LDL cholesterol levels with few short term side effects. Drug therapies for cholesterol removal can include HMG CoA reductase inhibitors such as atorvastatin, lovastatin, fluvastatin, rosuvastatin, pravastatin and simvastatin.