Unhealthy cholesterol levels, which include elevated LDL ("bad") cholesterol and low HDL ("good") cholesterol, are a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke, says the American Heart Association, or AHA. Various treatment options, including alternative medicine, are available to help increase HDL cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart disease. The higher the HDL cholesterol level, the more protective it is against heart disease, reports the AHA.
Niacin
Niacin, or nicotinic acid, is a B vitamin that is used by the body to convert carbohydrates into energy and helps to keep different body systems healthy. It is available over-the-counter as a supplement and in higher doses as a prescription. According to the National Institutes of Health, or NIH, niacin has been shown to increase HDL cholesterol levels by 15 to 35 percent and is therefore one of the most effective treatments available to raise HDL cholesterol.
Food Nutrients
Certain foods have been found to have a beneficial effect on cholesterol levels, according to the Mayo Clinic. These foods include whole grains, such as oatmeal, oat bran and whole-wheat goods; nuts, such as walnuts, almonds and brazil nuts; the plant sterols beta-sitosterol and beta-sitostanol, which are included in some margarine spreads; and omega-3 fatty acids found in foods such as fatty fish, fish oil supplements, flaxseeds and flaxseed oil.
Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes
According to the Mayo Clinic, lifestyle habits have the biggest impact on HDL cholesterol levels, and even small changes toward healthy habits can begin to increase HDL cholesterol levels.Healthy habits that increase HDL cholesterol include quitting smoking; losing weight, which can raise HDL cholesterol by 1mg/dL for every 6 pounds lost; being physically active by performing invigorating exercise for 30 minutes at least five times a week; choosing healthier fats; and drinking alcohol in moderation.
