High cholesterol levels can lead to several heart diseases. Yet, a lot of people are careless with their eating and exercising habits to deal with cholesterol. However, it’s essential to know that one needs to cut down on low-density lipoprotein or “bad cholesterol”. This helps in lowering the risk of heart stroke and is good for your overall health. Here are 5 ways to lower your cholesterol levels:
Increase your fibre intake
Fibre is an essential nutrient that your body needs to function properly. Soluble fibre, in particular, works wonders for lowering bad cholesterol levels. It can be found in oatmeal, peas, flax seeds and nuts. These items are easily available in grocery stores, so you can stock up on them. If you find them to be bland, experiment with other ingredients to perk them up.
Avoid foods containing saturated food
If your fridge is full of cheese, poultry skin, butter or even sausages, it’s time to reconsider your diet. In addition to these, cakes, pastries, candies also contain a lot of saturated fats, which can increase your cholesterol levels.
What you eat matters
Including a lot of fruits and veggies in your diet is an amazing way to lower cholesterol levels because of two reasons. One, you feel full and tend to stay away from junk food. Two, antioxidants help in improving your blood circulation.
Eat in small portions
When it comes to eating, your serving size and time are also important. To achieve your weight loss goals, make sure you eat frequently. Schedule your meals throughout the day to avoid accumulation calorie intake. This helps in improving your metabolism.
Medication, if required
According to Livestrong, lifestyle changes are a good way to manage your cholesterol levels. However, it’s important to go for regular health check-ups as well. Consult your doctor, and if there are any medicines that are prescribed, make sure you take them on time. According to the American Heart Association, it’s ideal to get a cholesterol checked every five years.
