How to Control Cholesterol Without Statins

A statin is a cholesterol-lowering medication, such as Lipitor. Patients with high cholesterol must lower their low-density lipoprotein levels, also called LDL or "bad" cholesterol. Abnormal levels of LDL lead to a higher risk of heart disease, because LDL can build up on the inner walls of your arteries. It is possible to lower your cholesterol without taking a statin, but it will take a commitment to changing your lifestyle.

Instructions

• 1

  Change your eating habits from foods high in "bad" cholesterol, such as fast foods, to a balanced diet with foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol. Diet is arguably the most important factor in high cholesterol levels. Eat foods that contain healthy levels of HDL or "good" cholesterol, which are present in foods, such as fish and olive oil. Eat whole grains, which have soluble fiber, rather than bleached flour. Eating plants, legumes and other natural and unprocessed foods is crucial in lowering your cholesterol.

• 2

  Complete 30 minutes of exercise at least five days per week. Go to a gym and use the treadmill, stair climber, or elliptical, to name a few, or play sports that raise your heart rate to an aerobic level. If you maintain an exercise program for at least 12 weeks, complemented by a positive change in your diet, you should see your cholesterol levels drop. Consult your doctor before starting an exercise program.

• 3

  Take a niacin supplement, which is a B-vitamin used to increase levels of good HDL cholesterol. HDL helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. You can get a higher dose of niacin with a prescription from your doctor. Niacin also is in lean meats, dairy products, poultry, and nuts.