How to Reduce LDL Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol, a kind of fat is produced by the liver and is quite essential for the proper functioning of the body. This is present on the walls of every cell of the body. Some of the functions of cholesterol are building and maintenance of cell membranes and prevention of crystallization of the hydrocarbons present, production of bile and hormones released by the adrenal glands, insulation of nerve fibers etc. Though cholesterol is required for so many purposes, it causes trouble when it reaches permissible limits. There are two kinds of cholesterol, the HDL and LDL cholesterol. It is the HDL cholesterol that is required for the body and is termed good cholesterol and the LDL cholesterol, bad as it causes various health issues and is to be avoided. Here are a few methods by which you can keep the LDL cholesterol levels low.
1Â Â Â Â Â Â Â An easy way by which you can keep your LDL cholesterol levels low is to follow a diet that devoid of cholesterol. Make sure your cholesterol diet is healthy and contains all the required nutrients for a healthy life.
2Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Regular exercise is also another way of keeping the LDL cholesterol levels low. Leading a sedentary life along with excessive consumption of fatty foods, may increase the level of LDL cholesterol in the blood, thereby resulting in various health complications.
3Â Â Â Â Â Â Â There must be a limitation of the intake of saturated fats as they are responsible for the rise of LDL cholesterol. Avoid eating foods like egg yolks, butter, sausages, poultry products, etc.
4Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Increase the consumption of foods rich in fiber as they help in bringing down of the cholesterol levels drastically. Fruits and vegetables are excellent sources of fiber and serve as the best cholesterol lowering foods. Oatmeal is another fiber rich food that you can have for breakfast everyday. It is recommended that about 25 to 30 grams of fiber intake a day can help in the lowering of the cholesterol that harms the system.
5Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Addition of omega 3 fatty acids to your diet may also help in the reduction of the LDL cholesterol. You can have the fish supplements or cold water fish for obtaining the nutrient.
6Â Â Â Â Â Â Â You can also reduce the cholesterol by using olive oil for cooking the food at home. This is because the olive oil is an effective anti oxidant that helps in the LDL cholesterol reduction.
7Â Â Â Â Â Â Â If you are in the habit of eating snacks that are unhealthy, you can substitute them with nuts like almonds, pistachios and walnuts which are healthier and lower the cholesterol levels.
8Â Â Â Â Â Â Â If you have the habit of smoking, it is better to avoid it as it has a positive effect on the cholesterol levels.