Abnormal cholesterol levels, called dyslipidemia, is an important concern as it can lead to high blood pressure, arteriosclerosis or hardening and narrowing of the arteries, heart disease and strokes. However, there are different types of cholesterol molecules in the body and some are actually healthy types. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is a healthy type of cholesterol that decreases the risk of heart and vascular disease and also reduces excess unhealthy cholesterol levels. Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is an unhealthy type of cholesterol that causes narrowing and damage to the arteries and increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Hence, blood tests look at both types of cholesterol and medicines seek to raise HDL levels and lower LDL levels for optimum cardiovascular health.
Step 1
Schedule an appointment with your doctor to check your cholesterol or lipid levels. Have a blood test at the clinic or lab to check HDL and LDL levels. Follow the instructions provided by the clinic before the blood test, such as not eating a fatty meal before the test.
Step 2
Consult your doctor concerning the blood test results and ascertain your HDL and LDL levels. Discuss options for treatment if HDL levels are lower than 40 mg/dL, short for milligrams per deciliter, for males and 50 mg/dL for females, or if LDL levels are higher than 130 mg/dL as outlined by the MayoClinic.com. These results may indicate an increased risk for heart and vascular disease.
Step 3
Make dietary changes to decrease high cholesterol levels. Add fiber such as oat bran, whole wheat, grains and lentils to your diet to decrease LDL cholesterol and also reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Increase your intake of niacin or vitamin B3 by eating more foods such as fortified breads and cereals, beets, peanuts and fish.
Step 4
Take niacin supplements and fish oil supplements to decrease cholesterol levels, according to MedlinePlus. These dietary supplements naturally increase HDL and decrease unhealthy LDL to better control unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Step 5
Take prescription cholesterol medications for excess lipids such as statins, if cholesterol levels are high and not controlled. Speak to your doctor about the best medications and nutrition, exercise and lifestyle changes to manage your cholesterol.
Tips and Warnings
- Regular blood tests and monitoring of diet, supplements and medications if applicable are important to manage cholesterol levels. Fiber-rich foods can naturally decrease LDL levels.
- Lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise are important to control excess cholesterol levels. However, in some case dyslipidemia may be due to genetics and medications may be necessary. A doctor can determine this and prescribe the right treatments.
