How to Control LDL Cholesterol

LDL, or low-density lipoprotein, helps transport cholesterol to and from the cells in the body. LDL cholesterol combines with other substances to form plaque deposits on artery walls. This causes a narrowing and hardening of the arteries, called atherosclerosis. According to the American Heart Association, atherosclerosis increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. For this reason, LDL is called the "bad" cholesterol. Knowing how to control LDL cholesterol will significantly reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit your doctor and check your cholesterol levels by undergoing a fasting blood test. You will need go without drinking or eating for nine to 12 hours prior to your test. This blood test will provide you with information on your total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

• 2

  Use the results of your cholesterol test to determine if your current LDL cholesterol level is too high. In most cases, LDL levels lower than 130 mg/dL are acceptable. However, your doctor may consider a level of 130 mg/dL too high if you are at risk of heart disease. You can also use an online calculator to perform the calculations (See Resources).

• 3

  Stop smoking to help control LDL cholesterol. Smoking cigarettes damages blood vessel walls, making them more vulnerable to fatty deposits. Smoking also lowers levels of HDL, the "good" cholesterol, according to the Mayo Clinic.

• 4

  Eat a balanced diet high in whole grains, vegetables and fruit. Avoid excessive consumption of full-fat dairy products, red meat and other foods high in saturated and trans fats. Some fish, especially those high in omega-3 fatty acids, are healthy alternatives to red meat.

• 5

  Consider supplementing your diet with artichoke, barley, garlic, oat bran, beta-sitosterol and blond psyllium. The Mayo Clinic states that these foods and supplements may help reduce cholesterol levels.

• 6

  Exercise regularly to lose weight, to boost your levels of HDL and to lower your LDL cholesterol. Obesity and lack of physical activity both increase the risk of high cholesterol.

• 7

  Control your blood sugar levels if you are diabetic by taking any prescribed medications and managing your diet. The American Diabetes Association cautions that some evidence shows a link between poorly controlled blood glucose and high LDL cholesterol.

• 8

  Take medications to control LDL cholesterol if lifestyle changes are not sufficient to lower your levels. Common cholesterol medications include statins, bile-acid-binding resins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors and drugs that contain a combination of statin and cholesterol absorption inhibitor.

• 9

  Have your cholesterol levels checked every five years or more often if you have certain risk factors for high cholesterol, such as a family history of the condition or diabetes.