The leading cause of death in the United States is heart disease, and high blood cholesterol places you at risk for this deadly condition. Approximately 1 in 6 adult Americans has high cholesterol, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. You can prevent your risk of heart disease by lowering your cholesterol. Although your doctor can prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications, natural methods may be just as effective. These treatments are not meant to replace the advice of your doctor.
Eliminate Trans Fats
Trans fats increase your low-density lipoprotein -- or bad cholesterol -- as well as your risk for for disease, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. Sources include fried foods, baked goods such as cookies and cakes and snack foods containing hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils. Read food labels when you shop to ensure the foods you buy are free of trans fats.
Eat Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids belong to the family of polyunsaturated fats -- or healthy fats -- and lower LDL cholesterol while reducing blood pressure and your risk of developing blood clots, according to MayoClinic.com. The primary source of these fats is fish, such as mackerel, tuna and salmon. Other sources include walnuts, flaxseed and leafy vegetables. The Harvard School of Public Health recommends eating one source every day.
Lose Weight
Excess weight increases your cholesterol levels; losing 5 to 10 lbs. can make a difference, explains MayoClinic.com. The site suggests setting reasonable weight-loss goals and keeping a journal of your current eating habits; this enables you to look at your habits and see what changes you need to make. Speak to your doctor or dietitian -- they can devise an eating plan to fit your personal needs.
Include Plant Sterols and Stanols
Sterols and Stanols are natural, cholesterol-lowering substances found in fortified yogurt, orange juice and margarine. MayoClinic.com explains that you can lower your LDL cholesterol more than 10 percent if you consume at least 2g of these substances daily. This equals two, 8 oz. glasses of fortified orange juice each day.
