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Natural Ways To Lower Your Cholesterol Without Medications
Having high cholesterol levels can be a cause for concern, and it can lead to a higher risk of heart disease, stroke and other medical issues. Fortunately, there are several natural ways to lower your cholesterol without needing to take medications.
Change Your Diet
One of the most important things you can do to lower your cholesterol levels is to make healthier food choices. Start by decreasing your intake of saturated and trans fats, which are generally found in animal products and commercially prepared foods. Increase your intake of healthy fats such as olive and canola oil, fatty fish and nuts. Switch to low-fat or fat-free dairy products, and fill up on whole-grain complex carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables to give you the energy you need in a healthy way.
Regular Exercise
Physical activity can be an important way to lower your cholesterol. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week. This can include anything from walking, running, biking, or swimming, just to name a few. Regular exercise can help to reduce your “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and increase your “good” cholesterol (HDL), which can be beneficial for your overall health and wellness.
Quit Smoking
Smoking has many health risks, and one of them is an elevated cholesterol level. Quitting smoking can be a challenge, but there are many resources available to help you. Your healthcare team can help you to develop a plan to quit smoking, such as nicotine replacement therapy, medication, and counselling.
Stress Management
Chronic stress can raise your cholesterol levels over time. Make sure to take the time to relax, practice deep breathing, and take breaks throughout the day. Gently yoga, tai chi, and other forms of exercise can be beneficial for stress relief and overall health.
By making these few lifestyle changes, you can successfully lower your cholesterol levels and improve your overall health and quality of life. Talk to your healthcare provider for more advice on how to keep your cholesterol levels in check, and to make sure you are managing your health in the best way possible.