Our body needs some cholesterol to function, however, an excess of cholesterol, especially low density lipoprotein (LDL) can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, such as heart attacks and strokes. Maintaining a healthy cholesterol level can save you from the risk. If you want to naturally reduce your cholesterol, you can achieve it by following a few healthy lifestyle changes including:
Start eating healthy: You are what you eat; we all know that a healthy diet can help in fighting an array of health problems. A few changes in your food choices can help in lowering cholesterol and improving overall health. Try to reduce the intake of saturated fats that are usually found in red meat and full-fat dairy products. This will help in reducing your low density lipoprotein (LDL) popularly known as the bad cholesterol. Avoid adding Trans fats usually found in cookies, cakes and crackers.
Eating healthy is not only about cutting down on certain food it also means you should add few things. Adding foods that contain Omega-3 can help in reducing blood pressure. Similarly, adding soluble fiber can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Soluble fiber is found in foods such as oatmeal, sprouts, apples and pears.
Be physically active: Exercising on most days of the week and remaining physically active throughout the day can improve cholesterol. If you find it hard to exercise you can opt to go for brisk walks, indulging in a sport of your choice or ditching your car for a bicycle ride.
Making lifestyle changes: If you are a smoker and diagnosed with high cholesterol, you should try to quit or cut down on the number of cigarettes you smoke per day. Similarly quitting or cutting back if you consume alcohol can also help in lowering cholesterol, and improve overall health.
Regular Monitoring: You can stay on top of your health by knowing your cholesterol status at regular intervals. If you are running on a tight schedule, you can get the cholesterol levels checked in the comfort of your home through a simple blood test at home. Home healthcare services provide blood test at home services that are easy to book.