Treating High Cholesterol SafelyOur lifestyle, gender, and genetics can all effect the level of cholesterol we have in our bodies. We can all do things to live healtier and longer. Maintaining a healthy level of cholesterol in the body should be one of those things. The truth is, young, thin, and even physically fit individuals can have high cholesterol levels in the body. Managing our lifestyle can help reduce the factors in our life that are increasing our cholesterol levels, however, others may require an aggressive cholesterol-lowering medication approach. Excess weight in the body usually indicates a high leve of the 'bad' cholesterol Many are unaware that there is good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL). We can improve our HDL-to-LDL ratio by regularly exercising, running or jogging, walking, and eating a diet lower in fatty foods. Weight loss is also helpful. Studies have also shown that alcohol, in moderation, can have beneficial effects in raising HDL levels. Many things can affect the cholesterol levels in the body. A diet of saturated fats can make your blood cholesterol increase significantly. Saturated fat is usually the main problem, but the cholesterol content in food also is a factor. Being overweight can be a serious risk factor for heart disease. Combining a good diet with cholesterol reducing medications can prove very effective. Most medications are meant to supplement, and not restore, a low-saturated fat diet. To reduce cholesterol, the main guidelines include: replace part of the saturated fat with unsaturated fats, avoid very high-cholesterol foods, choose foods that are complex carbohydrates with plenty of fiber, reduce your weight, and exercise regularly. Keeping a diary of your daily changes and activities is an excellent way to help reduce your cholesterol. |