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Cholesterol Lowering Therapy

If you are concerned about or have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, talk to your doctor about steps you can take to reduce your bad cholesterol levels. Therapy options include diet, exercise and supplements to reduce fat intake and maintain proper weight. If you are still unable to control your cholesterol, your doctor might prescribe a cholesterol medication.

  1. Diet

    • According to the American Heart Association, a diet lower in fat and high in fiber can help reduce cholesterol levels. Diet adjustments include replacing saturated fats with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. Only allow up to 10 percent of calorie consumption to come from saturated fats. Increase water intake and reduce alcohol and smoking, both of which are known to increase heart disease. Increase the amount of fiber you eat either through fresh fruits and vegetables or a high fiber, low-fat cereal. Make sure the cereal is low in sugar as well.
      Eat lean meats and reduce the number of egg yolks you eat or use in cooking. Fish oils are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce cholesterol. Increase the amount of tuna, mackerel, salmon and herring you eat. You can also take a fish oil supplement.

    Exercise

    • Be active. This helps maintain a healthful weight and improve heart strength. Choose to walk and take the stairs whenever you can. A block on your way to lunch burns calories and gets your blood flowing. Ride a bike to return a movie. Try to find an aerobic activity that you enjoy such as swimming, biking or walking. Do this activity as an aerobic workout at least three times a week for a half an hour. When doing an aerobic workout, you want to get your heart rate up to at least 70 percent of its maximum rate.

    Medical Action

    • When diet and exercise are not enough to lower your cholesterol levels, your doctor might prescribe a cholesterol medication. Many drugs used in the United States are called statins, which prevent cholesterol from forming in the liver. Another drug class called resins help the intestines dispose of cholesterol by creating more bile used in digestion. Fibrates lower triglycerides and can sometimes increase good cholesterol. Niacin might be prescribed as a dietary supplement to help lower cholesterol. Use all medications as directed by your doctor and seek medical consultation for any side effects.

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