Two Main Ways to Lower Cholesterol

When first told that they have an issue with high cholesterol levels, it is not uncommon for people to question what exactly cholesterol is. Cholesterol is a natural waxy, fat-like substance, produced by the body mainly in the liver. It can also be found in common foods, especially certain meats, eggs and dairy foods.

So, what are the risks and dangers of having high cholesterol levels and how does the amount of cholesterol in our bodies get high in the first place?

It is important to understand that the body needs cholesterol. It uses it to make essential vitamins, like Vitamin D, as well as to produce hormones and digestive acids which enable to body to process fats in the stomach. However, the body has only a limited requirement for cholesterol which is why, when there is a surplus of cholesterol present in the body, that health issues like stroke and heart disease begin to develop.

When we manage cholesterol levels, we are attempting to regulate two things. Firstly, we aim to make a reduction in the amount of low-density lipoprotein (or LDL, 'bad' cholesterol) which can cause a fatty accumulation of the walls of arteries, known as plaque. At the same time, we try to increase the concentration of high density lipoproteins (or HDL, 'good' cholesterol) present, as this assists the body in getting rid of LDL. A deficiency in HDL levels is also known to cause heart problems.

There are two prevalent ways for lowing cholesterol - firstly by making a change in your diet, and secondly with the assistance of prescription medicines.

The American Heart Association has issued guidelines on the amount of cholesterol which is considered safe in a person's diet. They recommend that every person eats less than 300 milligrams of dietary cholesterol each day. However, for those who are already suffering from heart disease or have high cholesterol levels, they recommend that this is reduced further to less than 200 milligrams. In order to reduce the amount of cholesterol being ingested, all you need to do is stay away from foods which are either high in saturated fats or which contain substantial quantities of dietary cholesterol.

Some people have no choice but to supplement the dietary changes they make with prescription medication because they may be diabetic or for some other reason be at high risk of developing heart disease. Your doctor will take account of several factors before you are issued a prescription for these drugs. In particular, they will examine your family medical history, whether you take regular exercise, whether you are a smoker and so on.

If you want to avoid having to take this kind of medication, then making a few basic changes early on to your lifestyle can help. You should kick the habit if you are a smoker and be aware that dietary change is fundamental. Cigarettes have the unfortunate effect of reducing the levels of HDL in the body but this is easily reversed by quitting smoking. Regular exercise will also help naturally lower the levels of LDL. This exercise need not be strenuous - a brisk walk or light jog for 30 minutes a day is sufficient. Exercise will also boost the level of good cholesterol in your body and so has a dual effect. It will also help you regulate your blood pressure and bodyweight, both of which are risk factors in the development of heart conditions.

Keep in mind that both heart diseases and high cholesterol can be passed from generation to generation. If you become aware of a history of either in your family medical history you should visit your doctor and have an examination immediately. They can give you a simple, painless blood test which will quickly let you know what your levels of HDL and LDL as well as triglycerides are and they can then offer you further information and advice on what changes to your lifestyle will have the most impact in helping you to keep your cholesterol levels within a healthy range.

Mark C. Elliot is a nutrition expert. For more great information on lowcholesterolsecrets.com/how-lower-cholesterol how lower cholesterol, visit lowcholesterolsecrets.com lowcholesterolsecrets.com.