Purebun.com – Tips for Lowering Cholesterol with 5 Lifestyle Changes. Cholesterol is found in every cell in the body and only because of it, the body is able to produce hormones, build cells and digest food. Although good for the body, high levels can also have bad effects.
One of the two types of cholesterol, LDL cholesterol or low-density lipoprotein, known as bad cholesterol, often sticks to the walls of blood vessels, which can trigger a heart attack.
Well, to avoid that, there are five simple lifestyle changes that can help lower LDL cholesterol levels in our bodies, reported by HealthShots:
1. Eat foods rich in omega-3
Avoid saturated fat, which is found in red meat and full-fat dairy products. One should also eliminate trans fats which actually increase the overall cholesterol level. Instead, eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, mackerel, herring, walnuts, and flaxseed. Also, add soluble fiber to your diet along with whey protein.
2. Exercise regularly
Moderate physical activity increases high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, “good” cholesterol, and lowers LDL cholesterol. Therefore, make sure you exercise for 30 minutes, five times a week or vigorous aerobic activity for 20 minutes, at least three times a week. If not, go for a brisk 30-minute walk.
3. Quit smoking
If you really quit smoking, it will increase HDL cholesterol levels in the body. In fact, within 20 minutes of stopping, the body will return to its original blood pressure and heart rate.
4. Lose weight
Losing weight can help lower high cholesterol levels. Avoid consuming sugary drinks or eating fried, salty foods, and monitor calories daily.
5. Limit alcohol
Drink alcohol in moderation which will maintain higher HDL cholesterol levels. For healthy adults, it’s best to limit alcohol consumption to just one or two drinks a day. Remember, too much alcohol can cause other serious health problems. Therefore, limit it and if you can avoid it.