Reducing High Cholesterol Naturally

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Cholesterol is an important molecule in the body. It is used to make important

steroid hormones and to give support to the cell membranes. It also has some

important properties in regards to the immune system and protecting against

cancer. There are two carriers of cholesterol, HDL (high density lipoproteins)

and LDL (low density lipoproteins). A high HDL level is considered good, it

carries cholesterol back to the liver to be removed from the body.

 

Problems occur when there is too much LDL cholesterol travelling around in the

body. When the bodily system is out of balance, plaques form in arteries leading

to a condition known as atherosclerosis - a main factor in heart disease. This

is when the arteries start to narrow and can become blocked. There are generally

no symptoms.

 

While high (LDL) cholesterol can be a risk factor for heart disease it can

usually be managed by correcting diet and exercising more regularly. There are

cases where high cholesterol levels have genetic causes, which can be difficult

to treat. Increasing soluble fibre in the form of fruits, vegetables, and whole

grains will help reduce cholesterol. Emphasise lean proteins such as fish, eggs,

and soy rather than other meats. Omega 3 fatty acids found in flax seed or fish

oils are also recommended.

 

Exercise is very important to reduce cholesterol. Combined exercise and diet

reduces LDL cholesterol much more significantly than simply diet alone. By

combining exercise and diet, dependence on drugs such as statins and beta

blockers can sometimes be reduced or eliminated.

 

Co-enzyme Q10 (or CoQ10) can assist with its anti-oxidant properties, especially

when taking statins. Other substances that may help include a moderate intake of

red wine, which inhibit LDL forming plaques and green tea which raises HDL

cholesterol (the ‘good’ cholesterol).

 

Article at:

http://www.althealthinfo.com/2005/08/26/reducing-high-cholesterol-naturally/