Cholesterol is one of the main factors that put a person at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. Although medications can help lower cholesterol levels, many individuals prefer natural remedies because of possible side effects. This article aims to provide the best strategies to reduce cholesterol without drugs, discuss natural cholesterol treatment, and provide valuable tips on protecting the heart.
Understanding Cholesterol
First, let’s ensure we know what cholesterol is and why it is critical in our bodies. Cholesterol is a lipid, a substance that is both a fat and a wax-like substance in every cell of the human body. It is needed to make hormones, vitamin D, and other things that help the body use our foods. However, high blood cholesterol levels can result in plaques forming along the artery walls, thus narrowing and hardening them, which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Cholesterol control is essential for heart health and avoiding further problems.
Natural Cholesterol Remedies
Dietary Changes
Diet is also an essential factor that should be considered to maintain cholesterol levels. Including foods that are good for the heart in your diet can reduce harmful cholesterol levels by up to 27 per cent while increasing the amount of good cholesterol by up to 30 per cent. Consume large amounts of carbohydrates, especially fibre-rich foods like oats, beans, lentils, fruits and vegetables, since they slow down cholesterol absorption into the bloodstream. Opt for lean proteins instead of red meat for low-fat dairy products, and consume healthy fats from avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Omega-3 fatty acids are especially beneficial, especially those found in fatty fish. Other valuable foods in reducing cholesterol levels include brown rice, quinoa, and any product made from whole wheat.
Exercise Regularly
Cholesterol is another area where physical activity can significantly affect its management. Exercise also aids in raising the levels of HDL cholesterol while decreasing the levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Ideally, the recommended amount of exercise per week is 150 minutes for moderate aerobic activity like brisk walking or cycling. Aerobic workouts, such as brisk walking for at least 30 minutes daily, and strength training exercises, like weight training twice weekly, are also recommended. Exercise is also beneficial in cholesterol control and the general well-being of the heart and blood vessels due to the enhanced circulation.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity leads to high levels of cholesterol in the body and, therefore, is a significant factor that causes high cholesterol. It is possible to reduce cholesterol even if you shed a few pounds. Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise: diet and exercise should be given priority when it comes to weight. It is unnecessary to change the diet drastically, but simple things like eating apples instead of chips and having smaller servings of food will help. Keeping one’s weight in check prevents the heart from working harder and minimizes the likelihood of other obesity-related diseases.
Quit Smoking
Smoking also contributes to cholesterol levels. Smoking cessation can increase HDL cholesterol. Talk to healthcare providers, support groups, or smoking cessation programs to help you quit. Quitting the use of tobacco is one of the best things you can do to reduce your risk of heart disease and other health problems. It also plays a role in the rehabilitation of lungs and the prevention of respiratory disorders.
Plant Sterols and Stanols
Phytosterols and their saturated derivatives, stand esters, are bioactive compounds naturally present in limited quantities in fruits, vegetables, nuts and grains. These compounds assist in preventing the re-absorption of cholesterol in the small intestines, thus reducing the LDL cholesterol levels in the body. Some foods rich in sterols and stanols include margarine spreads and orange juice products. Consuming these natural supplements as part of your diet can help you prevent high cholesterol without necessarily having to take a pill.
Soluble Fiber Supplements
If you cannot consume the required amount of soluble fibre through your diet, you can opt for fibre supplements like psyllium husk. These supplements can also reduce cholesterol levels as they form complexes with cholesterol in the gastrointestinal tract, thus inhibiting its absorption in the bloodstream. Supplements containing soluble fibres are a convenient means of increasing fibre intake in the diet for improved cholesterol balance and digestion.
Limit Alcohol Intake
It has been observed that people who consume moderate amounts of alcohol have higher levels of HDL cholesterol. Still, the same is not valid for heavy drinkers, as they are at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure. Avoid drinking alcohol frequently, especially if you are a woman; the recommended limit is one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. The conclusion that can be made here is that the possible benefits of alcohol can only be enjoyed if the person can avoid the vices of alcoholism. Moderation in the use of alcohol is essential to keep off diseases of the heart and other related ailments.
Reduce Stress
Stress is known to have a detrimental effect on lipid profiles and cardiovascular health. Take up stress management activities like:
- meditation
- deep breathing
- yoga
- any other activity that you find enjoyable
Other measures include ensuring one gets enough rest and having supportive people around them. Lowering Stress helps with your cholesterol levels.
Conclusion
Reducing cholesterol without using drugs is possible by changing the diet, increasing physical activity, losing weight and other activities. It is possible to lower your cholesterol by using natural remedies for cholesterol and advice on cholesterol that is easily implementable in everyday life. It is always essential to seek advice from your doctor before you make drastic changes to your diet or exercise program, especially if you have some chronic conditions. This is why it is essential to take preventive measures to manage cholesterol naturally, enhance our overall health, and reduce the occurrence of cardiovascular diseases.