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Cures for Lowering Cholesterol

Elevated cholesterol levels are a major health problem for some people. Cholesterol is divided into LDL, or "bad," cholesterol and HDL, or "good," cholesterol. There are a variety of natural and drug based ways of lowering cholesterol. Many people prefer to try more gentle, natural methods before using drug based interventions.

  1. Healthy Oils

    • Because the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol is almost as important as their combined number, one of the first things to try when attempting a natural cholesterol lowering regiment is to use oils known to increase HDL cholesterol, while lowering LDL. Using healthy oils is critical. Although olive oil is considered the best cooking oil for cholesterol reduction, any oil high in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats is considered better for cholesterol levels. In addition to olive oil, peanut oil, sunflower oil and canola oil are considered better than some of the alternatives.

      Fish that contains healthy oils, such as cod or salmon, is also an excellent addition to a cholesterol lowering diet. Fish oil is very high in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are an excellent way to both lower cholesterol levels and to improve the ration of good to bad cholesterol.

    Pu Erh Tea

    • The Chinese tea, pu erh, is excellent both for weight control and cholesterol reduction. Pu erh tea is made from the more ancient, broad leafed tea tree, Camelia Sinensis. Pu erh is an aged tea, with older varieties being more valuable. The taste of pu erh is earthy, and can be an acquired taste. However, with a higher caffeine content than coffee, a couple of cups of pu erh in the morning is a wonderful way to wake up and to help manage cholesterol levels.

    Red Rice Yeast

    • Red rice yeast, the yeast used to make the beautifully colored red Chinese roasted and barbecue's pork, contains several compounds that inhibit cholesterol synthesis. Extract of red rice yeast has been given as a cholesterol medication in a number of Asian nations, and the Mevacor is produced by extracting certain compounds from red rice yeast. Whether eaten as a cooking additive, taken as a medicinal supplement or taken as an extract, there is no longer any question as to its effectiveness in lowering cholesterol.

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