Watch Your High Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol, a wax-like matter derived from the liver, is important to our body functions. Cholesterol levels are related to the food we eat and foods high in saturated fats influence cholesterol levels. In time, high cholesterol levels lead to heart and arteries conditions such as atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and even strokes and heart attacks. Since an increase of the body's normal cholesterol level is detrimental to health, lowering our cholesterol levels is one of the most important preventative health measures that we can undertake. If you are concerned about the side effects of having to take prescribed medicines such as Lipitor to lower your cholesterol, then try the following four cholesterol-lowering tips.
Watch your diet. Because diet has such a big impact on cholesterol lowering, embarking on a low fat and low cholesterol diet is the most important first move to attaining a healthy cholesterol level.
Exercise regularly. Good ardiovascular health can reverse the effects of high cholesterol, because it strengthens your heart and circulatory system. Undertake at least 30 minutes of low impact daily exercise, such as walking, with at least 5 minutes of aerobic exercise.
Learn to relax. Chronic stress will adversely affect cholesterol levels, so try to eliminate long periods of stress and learn some relaxation techniques whereby stress levels can be brought under control.
Make a plan. You can further work on lowering cholesterol levels if you have a plan besides diet, exercise and relaxation. Obviously you should stop smoking, since smoking accelerates plaque buildup in the arteries and plaque blocks the flow of blood to the heart. Also, have your cholesterol levels checked regularly and keep your doctor in the loop as far as your cholesterol control measures go. Enlightened doctors will help you form a diet and exercise plan suitable for your overall health and abilities, and will monitor your condition if you decide to stop taking medications.