How to Safely Lower Cholesterol

High cholesterol is something that must be taking seriously. Individuals who do not manage their cholesterol correctly increase their risks for heart disease and even heart attacks. While many patients battling high cholesterol are prescribed medicine by their doctors, there are also plenty of steps you can take to help manage and even lower your cholesterol. By making these simple changes, you can safely lower your cholesterol, lose weight and improve your overall health.

Instructions

• 1

  Do anywhere between 30 minutes to one hour of cardiovascular exercise every day. This will strengthen your heart and help you to lose weight, both of which will help you lower your cholesterol. You don't need to complete a strenuous workout in order to lower you cholesterol. A brisk 30-minute walk once a day every day of the week is enough exercise for a person trying to lower his or her cholesterol.

• 2

  Eliminate unhealthy foods from your diet. This includes all of the cliché food items, such as potato chips and other baked snacks, cookies and other sweets, soda and, of course, fast food. All of these foods will cause you to gain weight and will increase your cholesterol and blood pressure.

• 3

  Add foods known to lower cholesterol to your every day diet. You may be familiar with those Cheerios commercials stating that eating a bowl of the famous cereal can help lower your cholesterol. In reality, most whole grain cereals and breads will do so. Garlic is another item popular among people trying to lower their cholesterol. Avocados, cranberries and omega-3 fish oils (or supplements) can also aid a person trying to lower his or her cholesterol. Finally, you should try to eat two to three servings of fruits and vegetables on a daily basis.

• 4

  Remove foods high in fat and cholesterol from your diet for more healthier foods. To do this, all you need to do is learn to read food labels. Buy low fat meats, such as red meat that is 99 percent fat free or chicken and turkey breasts. Purchases cheeses and milk with a low percentage of fat (skim milk is obviously best). Look for soups, snacks and other items that have low amounts of sodium. Being a smarter shopper will drastically lower your cholesterol.

• 5

  Drink one alcoholic beverage every day. Studies have actually shown that a glass of wine or one light beer can be beneficial to a person hoping to lower his or her cholesterol. Having more than one drink, though, can raise your cholesterol so be sure to only do this in moderation. It's also wise to speak with your doctor before doing this. Depending on your health, your doctor may tell you to avoid alcohol.