Lower High Cholesterol Naturally
If you suffer from high cholesterol, you should know that it is quite possible to lower your cholesterol through natural means without medications that may cause adverse side effects. Research has also proven that cholesterol reduction medications can lead to liver damage when taken over a long period of time.
It is important to understand that not all cholesterol is bad. In fact, your body does need certain amounts of good cholesterol in order to function properly. Cholesterol specifically helps your body to repair cell membranes, manufacture vitamin D and produce hormones. A healthy cholesterol level should be about 180. High cholesterol is considered to be 240 or higher. Cholesterol at this level can lead to cardiovascular disease.
The best way to naturally lower your cholesterol is to change your diet. Certain specific diets have been shown to be capable of lowering cholesterol, including the Zone diet and Atkins diet or low-carb diet. Other ways that you can lower your cholesterol include reducing the amount of white flour products and foods high in sugar that you eat. At the same time it is important to cut back as much as possible on fried foods and increase your intake of vegetables and fruits. Eating fish at least two or more times per week has also been shown to be helpful in lowering cholesterol, providing the fish is baked.
Furthermore, you should concentrate on switching from unhealthy oils to oils such as olive oil. Instead of white pasta or bread, opt for whole grain foods and be sure to add plenty of oats to your diet. You may also wish to add in some soluble fiber, which is excellent at lowering cholesterol.
When increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables, be sure to focus on greens and leafy greens such as lettuce, spinach, broccoli and green beans. Fruits and berries should be another mainstay on your new diet.
Certain supplements may also help you to naturally reduce your cholesterol. These supplements include Niacin, a B vitamin and Chromium-GTF. Octacosanol, derived from wheat germ oil has also been shown to reduce cholesterol. Other supplements with the ability to lower cholesterol include Omega 3 oil, garlic and Guggul; which is an herbal medicine.
In the event that these methods still do not lower your cholesterol, be sure to speak to your physician regarding other methods for lowering your cholesterol. While natural methods may be the best option, if they do not work in your case, the important key is to get your cholesterol under control and avoid potential more serious health conditions.
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