How to Lower LDL Levels

Most people are aware that cholesterol is divided into "good" and "bad," but may not understand what that means. High-density lipoproteins, or HDL, are good for your body because they act as an antioxidant and an anti-inflammatory agent which can protect your heart and blood vessels. Low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, are called "bad" cholesterol. LDL flows throughout your body, and if your levels are too high, it can build up in the walls of the blood vessels. LDL that accumulates in the blood vessels can block blood flow and increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. Diet, exercise and medications are used to lower LDL levels.

Things You'll Need

• Omega 3 supplements
• Statin drugs

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Instructions

• 1

  Adjust your lifestyle to lower your LDL levels and improve your cardiovascular health. Refrain from smoking and eating large quantities of fatty foods, that can raise your cholesterol levels and put you at risk for heart attack or stroke. Choose low-fat foods such as part-skim cheeses and other dairy products, as well as lean meats.

• 2

  Opt for menu items that have been proven effective in reducing high LDL numbers. The Mayo Clinic suggests that choosing fiber-rich foods such as oatmeal, kidney beans, bananas, apples, pears and prunes can improve your overall cholesterol readings and may help you avoid medications.

• 3

  Snack on almonds, walnuts, pistachios and peanuts instead of chips and other foods that are high in saturated fats. The fatty acids and fiber content in nuts can be beneficial to your heart health and may lower LDL levels.

• 4

  Add omega 3 fatty acids to your diet to reduce bad cholesterol. Salmon, mackerel, herring and sardines are examples of fish that are high in omega 3 and, according to the Mayo Clinic, can play an important role in improving cholesterol. If you are not a fish eater, omega 3 supplements can provide the same health benefits.

• 5

  Control your cholesterol levels through exercise. A half-hour of daily aerobic exercise such as walking, jogging, swimming or participating in sports can be a non-medicated way to lower LDL.

• 6

  Use medications to manage your LDL levels if diet and exercise do not lower your numbers enough. Statin drugs are commonly prescribed to treat high cholesterol. Discuss any drug allergies or sensitivities with your doctor before beginning cholesterol medicines.