How to Bring Down Your LDL

LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein. It is considered the "bad" cholesterol that increases your risk for serious health complications like heart disease, heart attack and stroke. Do several things to lower your LDL that include dietary and lifestyle changes and medications if necessary. Lifestyle changes can dramatically improve your LDL count and are the preferred first line of treatment before resorting to medication.

Instructions

• 1

  Lose excess weight. Obesity contributes to high cholesterol. Even modest weight loss can make a big difference.

• 2

  Eat foods that contribute to heart health and lower LDL levels. These include healthy fats found in fish, nuts, seed and oils like olive, peanut and canola. Eat more whole grains, fruits and vegetables; their rich fiber content helps transport excess cholesterol out of the body through stool instead of it being reabsorbed by the body.

• 3

  Limit or eliminate foods that contribute to high LDL cholesterol. These include animal products and foods made with them; they are high in saturated fat. Trans fats are also bad for you. They are found in margarine, many commercially baked goods and fried foods. If the ingredients include partially hydrogenated oil, that is a trans fat.

• 4

  Exercise for 30 to 60 minutes daily. If you do not already exercise, start slowly and aim for a few days a week. Talk to your doctor; he can help you design a safe and effective workout regimen

• 5

  Talk to your doctor about cholesterol-lowering medications if lifestyle changes are not producing sufficient results. Take as directed and never stop or alter your medication without consulting your physician. These medications do not preclude you from abandoning healthy lifestyle choices. They are meant to enhance a healthy diet and exercise, not replace them.