How To Reduce Cholesterol

How to Reduce Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is found in all cells of the body. It is essential for many bodily functions, such as hormone production and cell growth. However, high cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.

There are two types of cholesterol:

LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) is the "bad" cholesterol. It can build up in the arteries and form plaques, which can narrow the arteries and block blood flow.
HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein) is the "good" cholesterol. It helps to remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries and transport it to the liver, where it is broken down and removed from the body.

The ideal total cholesterol level is less than 200 mg/dL. A level of 200 to 239 mg/dL is considered borderline high, and a level of 240 mg/dL or higher is considered high.

There are a number of things you can do to lower your cholesterol, including:

Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet for lowering cholesterol includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It also includes lean protein and low-fat dairy products. Limit saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.
Get regular exercise. Exercise helps to raise HDL cholesterol levels and lower LDL cholesterol levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Lose weight if you are overweight or obese. Losing weight can help to lower your cholesterol levels. Even a small amount of weight loss can make a difference.
Quit smoking. Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol levels and raises LDL cholesterol levels. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your heart health.
Manage your blood pressure. High blood pressure can damage the arteries and make them more likely to develop cholesterol plaques. Talk to your doctor about ways to manage your blood pressure.
Take medication. If you have high cholesterol, your doctor may recommend that you take medication to lower your cholesterol levels. There are a number of different types of cholesterol-lowering medications available.

FAQ

What is the difference between LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol?

LDL cholesterol is the "bad" cholesterol that can build up in the arteries and block blood flow. HDL cholesterol is the "good" cholesterol that helps to remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries and transport it to the liver, where it is broken down and removed from the body.

What is the ideal total cholesterol level?

The ideal total cholesterol level is less than 200 mg/dL. A level of 200 to 239 mg/dL is considered borderline high, and a level of 240 mg/dL or higher is considered high.

What are some ways to lower my cholesterol?

There are a number of things you can do to lower your cholesterol, including:

* Eat a healthy diet.
* Get regular exercise.
* Lose weight if you are overweight or obese.
* Quit smoking.
* Manage your blood pressure.
* Take medication.