Not all cholesterol is bad. In fact, the cholesterol in your blood is needed to make bile acids that are important in the digestion of fats, essential hormones, and vitamin D. Cholesterol is found in many different types of foods such as meat, dairy products, and eggs.
However, the problem starts when too much cholesterol builds up in the blood. This leads to the formation of plaque in the arteries which slows the flow for blood to flow smoothly. When this happens, it’s easy for heart disease and other conditions to develop. A doctor determines high cholesterol when the total cholesterol in the blood exceeds 200 mg/dl or the LDL or bad cholesterol exceeds 100 mg/dl.
There are steps you can take to lower your cholesterol level. One is to change your eating habits. A diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, and high in fiber will help reduce LDL and total cholesterol. Avoid commercially packaged foods, as well as commercially prepared foods that are high in trans fat, typically found in many fast food outlets. Eat plenty of soluble fiber found in oats and oat bran, which lowers bad cholesterol. Also, eat “heart-healthy” foods, such as fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, known as “good” fats. This helps lower cholesterol, as well as lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of developing blood clots.
Losing weight is another thing you can do to lower your cholesterol level. If you carry even a few extra pounds, you contribute to the development of high cholesterol. Take an honest look at your weight, eating habits, and physical activities, then do something to help you lose those extra pounds. Maybe you tend to eat more when you’re stressed or bored; Instead of turning to food, try to entertain yourself with a brisk walk or by participating in an activity with a friend.
If you tend to sit on the couch and eat chips while watching TV, swap out the chips for some carrots or celery sticks for a healthy snack. There are numerous ways to lose that extra weight – you just need to start with your mindset and start with small steps.
You should also consider quitting now and minimizing your alcohol intake. These two contribute to high cholesterol and are also a factor in the development of many health conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. In fact, with every cigarette you smoke, you reduce your lifespan by 11 minutes. So start breaking this bad habit now.
When these steps are not enough to lower your cholesterol level, a doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications. The dose varies based on your blood cholesterol results, as well as other risk factors you may have. It’s also important to talk to your doctor about how you’re trying to lower your cholesterol, so they can advise you on it.