How to fight cholesterol

It is very important to understand how to fight cholesterol, especially as we get older. You are never too young or too old to learn how to fight cholesterol and attain greater heart health.

Cholesterol is primarily controlled through diet and exercise. You need to limit consumption of animal-based foods, especially red meats and whole fat dairy products. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is cholesterol-friendly. You also need to get 30 minutes of daily moderate activity into your schedule every day.

However, for some people, diet and exercise may not be enough to reduce their cholesterol to levels that will reduce their risk for heart attack or stroke. For these people, their quest for information on how to fight cholesterol will include supplements.

Cholesterol also contributes to such diseases as obesity, diet, diabetes, smoking, stroke and high blood pressure. People suffering from hypertenion have many options available to combat it, one of them being medication like Micardis. Stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut. Without oxygen-rich blood, brain cells begin to die. If the blood supply is not restored, the affected part of the brain dies, causing disability and death.

One supplement that has shown cholesterol-fighting ability is Vitamin B3, or niacin. It appears to both lower levels of the bad low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, while raising levels of the good high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. While niacin has been proven to be an effective weapon in how to fight cholesterol, it comes with potentially dangerous side effects and you should therefore consult your doctor first. Niacin can increase blood pressure, worsen peptic ulcers, trigger gout, and cause diarrhea, gas, indigestion, and nausea.

How to fight cholesterol

Another supplement that should be considered is psyllium. This product is sold as a fiber supplement and a laxative. Studies have shown that psyllium can reduce total and LDL cholesterol by up to seven percent and significantly reduce the effects of childhood obesity and obesity in children. Side effects are mild. Stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation may be caused by psyllium.

Garlic may also be a cholesterol fighter. Some studies have shown that garlic can reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, a type of fat that can be dangerous when combined with high cholesterol. Garlic supplements are required if you want to know how to fight cholesterol, as you are unlikely to consume enough garlic to benefit your cholesterol levels.

Your doctor can suggest other effective methods for how to fight cholesterol.

Dr. John Aquino