1. Avoiding High Cholesterol Levels
Healthy cholesterol levels are important for a variety of reasons. High cholesterol has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. A diet high in "bad fats" coupled with inactivity can lead to high cholesterol levels. Certain individuals are genetically predisposed to high cholesterol, but you shouldn't discount the influence of healthy dietary habits and lifestyle choices.
2. Weighing Highs and Lows
It's possible to have a high total cholesterol without an elevated heart disease ratio. Doctors determine your risk of heart disease by comparing the ratio of your HDL, or good cholesterol, to your total cholesterol level. If you have a high HDL level, it will reduce your heart disease ratio. It's still desirable to keep your total cholesterol under 200, but a high HDL level can, to some degree, offset a total cholesterol count that appears too high. HDL cholesterol transports cholesterol away from the heart and takes it to the liver for eventual elimination. Smoking lowers HDL level. If you smoke, quit.
3. Adults and Cholesterol
Individuals with an extensive family history of heart disease should have their cholesterol levels tested by age 20. Adults should have their cholesterol levels tested once every five years and more frequently if they have high results. Individuals who are at an increased risk of heart disease should have their C-reactive protein (CRP) level tested. CRP levels are linked to atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries and are responsible for other inflammatory conditions within the body.
4. Maintain Good Counts With Diet and Exercise
Eating a diet low in saturated fats and "bad cholesterol" is helpful for lowering cholesterol levels. Limit your red meat and dairy consumption, both of which are high in fat. Opt for "healthier fats" such as avocados, nuts and olive oil. Regular exercise will increase your HDL levels, so get moving. Any activity is better than none, and if you've been sedentary for a while start at a level with which you're comfortable. Cardio exercises that elevate your heart rate for at least 30 minutes are best.
5. Consider Medication Last
It's not always necessary to treat high cholesterol with medication. Consumers are bombarded with pharmaceutical ads for prescription medication both on TV and in magazines, leading them to believe medication is the only way to lower cholesterol. Eating less saturated fat and cholesterol can lower cholesterol. The problem is that it takes a long time to notice the cholesterol-lowering effects of a low-fat diet and many individuals aren't patient enough to stick with it. Many doctors prefer to use cholesterol medicine, but you should take it only as a last resort.
