09/05/2025
How to reduce cholesterol in the body
1. Diet:
Limit Saturated and Trans Fats:
These fats raise LDL (bad) cholesterol. Reduce intake of red meat, dairy products, and fried foods.
Increase Soluble Fiber:
Soluble fiber, found in oats, beans, and fruits, can help lower LDL cholesterol by binding to it in the intestines and removing it from the body.
Choose Healthy Fats:
Include monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from sources like olive oil, avocados, nuts, and fatty fish.
Eat Plant Sterols and Stanols:
These substances, found in fortified foods like margarine and orange juice, can help block cholesterol absorption.
Limit Added Sugar:
High sugar intake can negatively impact cholesterol levels.
2. Exercise:
Regular Physical Activity:
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Types of Exercise:
Walking, swimming, cycling, and strength training can all help lower cholesterol and improve heart health.
3. Other Lifestyle Factors:
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Losing weight can help lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.
Quit Smoking: Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol and increases LDL cholesterol.
Limit Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can raise triglyceride levels, which are related to cholesterol.
4. Medications:
Statins: Your doctor may recommend statins to help lower LDL cholesterol, especially if lifestyle changes haven't been enough.
5. Foods to Include:
Oats and Barley: Provide soluble fiber.
Legumes: Beans and lentils are good sources of soluble fiber and protein.
Nuts and Seeds: Provide healthy fats and soluble fiber.
Avocados: Rich in monounsaturated fats.
Oily Fish: Contain omega-3 fatty acids that can help lower triglycerides.
Garlic: May help lower cholesterol levels.
Green Tea: May have cholesterol-lowering effects.