For conventional medical practitioners, statin drugs are the treatment of choice to suppress the manufacture of cholesterol in the body. Naturopathic medicine is based on the premise that the body is capable of healing itself, and with proper nutrition, healthy living habits and a holistic approach to living that honors the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of the body, food may be the ultimate healer. Always consult with your doctor before self-medicating with food or other natural products. Do not discontinue taking prescription medication without the permission of your health care provider.
Step 1
Increase your intake of fiber. Use olive oil and canola oils in place of the saturated fats found in animal and dairy products. Eat plenty of vegetables, nuts and beans to slow the absorption of fat in the intestines.
Step 2
Eliminate all drinks and processed foods that contain high-fructose corn syrup. Read all food labels carefully before purchasing carbonated drinks, fruit juices, peanut butter and ketchup. Avoid switching to artificial sweeteners that may have other unhealthy side effects.
Step 3
Limit your intake of red meats and dairy products. Eat coldwater fish, such as wild-caught salmon and sardines to benefit from the omega-3 oils known to reduce LDL levels and raise the desired high-density cholesterol.
Step 4
Ask your doctor about the benefits of red yeast rice extract, which contains several compounds known to suppress cholesterol production. Take one 1,200 mg capsule with a meal twice each day. Avoid taking red yeast rice extract if you are allergic or are pregnant or nursing.
Step 5
Add onions and garlic to your daily diet to take advantage of their cholesterol-lowering properties. Use them to season soups and casseroles, roast and serve with other vegetables, or for best results, remove outer skins, rinse with fresh water and eat raw.
Tips and Warnings
- A 30-minute exercise routine executed five times a week will raise HDL levels within two months. If you don't enjoy running, you can try swimming, cycling or household chores, which are all easy ways to increase your heart rate and provide you with verifiable benefits.
- Although niacin, or vitamin B3, may help to raise HDL and lower LDL cholesterol, it can cause skin flushing and raise uric acid levels. Talk to your primary health care provider about the potential side effects of niacin and the advisability of regular tests to check for liver toxicity.
