|  | Conditions Treatments | Cholesterol

Natural Cure for High Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a necessary component in out body's makeup. It is needed to manufacture hormones and new cells. However, when too much cholesterol is present in the blood it may accumulate in the blood vessels and arteries. These accumulations of cholesterol, called plaques, may lead to heart attack or stroke. Medications are often used to treat high cholesterol, but individuals who prefer not to use medications can lower blood cholesterol in other ways.

  1. Diet

    • Individuals with high cholesterol should consume a heart-healthy diet consisting of high-fiber foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. A diet high in fiber can help to lower cholesterol numbers. Also eat lean meats, skinless poultry and fish. Fish that are particularly good choices are mackerel, herring and salmon.

      Saturated fats should be consumed in limited quantities. No more than 10 percent of your total calories should come from saturated fats. Healthier fat options include olive oil, canola oil and peanut oil. Also, walnuts and almonds contain healthy fat. Trans fats should be eliminated entirely. Trans fats are often found in processed food items such as crackers, snack cakes and cookies.

      Cholesterol intake should be limited to not more than 300mg per day. Those individuals who already have heart disease should aim to eat 200mg of cholerol or less per day. Cholesterol is found in egg yolks, whole milk and products made with whole milk, and organ meats.

    Exercise

    • Exercising 30 to 60 minutes per day can improve cholesterol levels. Good types of exercise include swimming, biking and walking.

    Lose Weight

    • Most individuals eating a heart-healthy diet and exercising regularly will lose weight along the way. Carrying extra pounds causes the body to store more cholesterol. Thus, losing weight will help lower cholesterol levels.

    Supplements

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, not many supplements have been scientifically proven to lower cholesterol. However, some offer promise. The Mayo Clinic recommends trying the following natural supplements: garlic, barley, artichoke extract, oat bran, beta-sitosterol, blond psyllium and sitostanol.

Cholesterol - Related Articles