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What Helps Lower Cholestrol?

High cholesterol levels can be extremely dangerous, often leading to life-threatening heart conditions. By making some behavioral changes, ranging from diet to exercise, and cutting out bad habits, the risk of high cholesterol can be lowered substantially.

  1. Significance

    • An unhealthy cholesterol level, which occurs when cholesterol, fats, cell-waste products and calcium build up on artery walls and block blood flow, can go undetected for years. If left untreated, high cholesterol can lead to heart disease, a heart attack or stroke.

    Diet

    • Changing dietary habits can keep cholesterol low and your heart healthy. Foods such as oatmeal contain soluble fiber, which reduces the "bad" form of cholesterol known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Eat more foods high in soluble fiber like beans or fruits, including pears, prunes and apples.

    Exercise

    • Daily exercise can help lower cholesterol. A moderate cardiovascular workout for 30 to 60 minutes can help raise the body's level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), which is known as "good" cholesterol.

    Lose Weight

    • Excess weight can contribute to high cholesterol. Shedding extra pounds, in some cases as little as 10 to 15 pounds, can result in a healthier cholesterol level.

    Prescription Medicine

    • Cholesterol-lowering drugs are available with a doctor's prescription. Some are brand-name drugs, while others are available as generics, a cheaper alternative.

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