Cholesterol is comprised of two types, LDL and HDL. The LDL, also named "bad" cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein, is the portion of your cholesterol that sticks to artery walls. This can cause restricted blood flow to the heart and brain, which puts you at risk for heart attack and stroke. Your HDL, also known as your "good" cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein, is the portion of cholesterol that attaches itself to LDL cholesterol and transports it to the liver for disposal. Family history can influence cholesterol readings and in some cases, your genetic makeup can cause the liver to produce too much cholesterol, increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke. The good news: There are several natural remedies that can help lower your LDL readings.
Function
Cholesterol is necessary in order for the body to perform certain functions, including building healthy cells, producing hormones and manufacturing bile acids used for digestion. Although the liver can produce all the cholesterol your body needs, cholesterol also enters your body by way of the foods you eat.
Causes
Consuming saturated fat found in animal products and trans fats that are commonly found in commercially baked cookies and crackers will increase your LDL. Choose healthier monounsaturated fats instead, such as olive, peanut and canola oils, which help to lower LDL levels. Eating unsalted nuts is another healthy fat option. Keep LDL levels low by consuming no more than 300 mg of cholesterol each day or less than 200 mg each day if you already have heart disease, recommends the Mayo Clinic.
Considerations
If you are overweight, ask your doctor about weight-loss options. Consider joining a group weight-loss program if you need extra motivation. Losing just 5 to 10 pounds can lower your LDL cholesterol. Also, incorporate regular exercise into your daily routine, such as swimming, walking or riding a bike. Exercise for 30 to 60 minutes each day; choose activities you enjoy for the best success rate. Even just 10 minutes of exercise a day can lower your LDL. Another natural remedy for lowering LDL is the use of cholesterol-lowering supplements, such as beta-sitosterol, blond psyllium, sitostanol and red yeast rice. Discuss the use of these supplements with your doctor prior to taking them.
Prevention
If you smoke, quit. Smoking damages blood vessels, which can cause fatty deposits to adhere to blood vessel walls. Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation programs if you need help quitting. Your risk of heart disease begins to decrease just 24 hours after quitting.
Warnings
Consult your doctor before exercising. Your doctor may want to make recommendations and monitor you if you have not participated in a recent exercise program. Also discuss weight-loss with your doctor prior to beginning a weight reduction program.
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