To dispel the myth, cholesterol is not harmful in and of itself. In fact, it is highly beneficial to your body and is required for normal hormone synthesis, proper digestion, and the absorption of vitamin D. However, an excess of cholesterol can become troublesome.
Every three to five years, most doctors advise healthy people to have their cholesterol checked. On the other hand, those with diabetes, heart disease, or a family history of high cholesterol should have their lipid profile and cholesterol evaluated once a year.
A lipid profile is what a doctor will do to check your cholesterol. Your knowledge of the many forms of cholesterol in your blood, such as triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), is improved by these tests.
But, before I get to how to lower cholesterol naturally, letโs first defined what it is:
A lipid, or fatty material, is what cholesterol is. It moves through your blood to assist with several bodily functions. A lipid is a type of material that is incapable of dissolving in water, meaning it cannot be taken into the bloodstream or broken down. Rather, it will pass through your bloodstream to the various bodily regions that require it.
Blood cholesterol and dietary cholesterol are the two forms of cholesterol.
Your liver produces blood cholesterol naturally, which is necessary for overall health. It facilitates the breakdown of fats and the production of hormones that support bodily functions. Your body can produce all the cholesterol it requires.
Conversely, dietary cholesterol is present in the foods and beverages we eat and drink, including dairy, meat, and seafood. When a person has high cholesterol, it’s usually because their diet has increased their cholesterol levels.
Signs of Elevated Cholesterol Levels
Hyperlipidemia, or having total cholesterol above 200 mg/dL, is a condition that can cause major health issues. Most of the bad cholesterol is consumed through food and beverages.
Plant sterol extracts, garlic, oat bran, and soy protein can all help reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as “bad cholesterol.
There are additional things to consider besides the cholesterol in your diet. Your age, physical activity level, and family history can all affect your cholesterol levels.
Females who are born with lower total cholesterol levels typically have greater total cholesterol after menopause due to an increase in LDL levels.
Sadly, there aren’t any obvious signs of elevated cholesterol. Nevertheless, there are a few clues that might suggest you check your cholesterol levels more closely:
![What is Cholesterol & Natural Ways to Lower It](https://i0.wp.com/jasminefeliciano.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/What-is-Cholesterol-Natural-Ways-to-Lower-It-pin.png?resize=683%2C1024&quality=80&ssl=1)
Cutaneous growths or lesions. Xanthomas may be the cause if you observe any yellowing of the skin or little lumps all over your body. These are lipid buildups that show up close to your skin’s surface.
Diabetes or obesity. Obese or diabetic individuals should undergo routine testing because they are more susceptible to elevated cholesterol.
Men who are experiencing impotence. An excessive amount of blood cholesterol can damage arteries and cause impotence.
Getting a blood test is the best approach to find out if you have high cholesterol. For this reason, it’s critical that you continue with your regular examinations. These at-home cholesterol tests can be useful if you want to monitor your cholesterol in between medical visits.
Strategies for Reducing Cholesterol Naturally
Over time, cholesterol levels might fluctuate. Your diet and level of physical exercise also tend to alter as you get older. These things have a direct effect on your cholesterol, particularly if you don’t follow heart-healthy practices.
When attempting to naturally lower your cholesterol, your diet is the first (and most essential) area to consider. For instance, a Mediterranean diet that prioritizes fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and olive oilโhealthy fats can help decrease cholesterol.
Avoiding excessively processed foods, as well as saturated and trans fats, is also advised. Dietary cholesterol can be controlled with supplements and by making the following dietary changes:
- Eat healthy fats like nuts, avocado, and olive oil
- Limit saturated fats like beef, pork, and palm oil
- Remove trans fats from prepackaged foods
- Increase your intake of fiber like whole grains, beans, and vegetables
- Think about switching to a plant-based diet
Include daily exercise in your routine, such as a quick yoga class or a stroll around the park, to maintain good cholesterol levels. Steer clear of high-stress situations, heavy alcohol consumption, and smoking.
A high coffee intake might also impact cholesterol levels. Researchers discovered in a 2018 study that young adults with daily averages of four espresso drinks had significantly higher LDL and total cholesterol.
To Wrap Things Up
Understanding cholesterol’s role in the body is crucial for maintaining overall health. Regular cholesterol checks are vital, especially for individuals with specific health conditions. Adopting a heart-healthy diet, such as the Mediterranean diet, and natural strategies like consuming healthy fats and increasing fiber intake contribute to optimal cholesterol levels. Coupled with regular exercise and a balanced lifestyle, these measures empower individuals to take charge of their cholesterol and promote long-term heart health.
Thank you for sharing this, my bf struggles with high cholesterol so it’s nice to read more about it so I can be more informed
Youโre most welcome! Glad it was a helpful read! Hope it helps your Bf as well.
Great info, thanks for sharing.
Youโre most welcome! Happy to share ๐