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8 Natural Ways to Keep Cholesterol in Check

excited lady working outA waxy substance found throughout your body, cholesterol helps your body manufacture cell membranes, different hormones, and vitamin D. While cholesterol plays an important role in the body, it can be harmful when you have too much of it.

Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is crucial for heart health and overall well-being. While genetics can play a role, you can do many things to keep your levels healthy; these include lifestyle factors like nutrition, exercise, and stress management, which also significantly influence cholesterol levels. Here are some practical tips to support healthy cholesterol levels and promote cardiovascular wellness naturally:

Eat a Nutrient-Dense Diet

Focus on a diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates. Incorporate heart-healthy fats found in avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil. Limit saturated and trans fats found in red meat, processed foods, and fried items, as they can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

Choose Low-Glycemic Foods

Opt for foods with a low glycemic index (GI), such as whole grains, legumes, and non-starchy vegetables. These foods help regulate blood sugar levels and can support healthy cholesterol levels.

Increase Fiber Intake

Dietary fiber, especially soluble fiber found in oats, barley, fruits, and vegetables, helps lower LDL cholesterol levels by binding to cholesterol in the digestive system and eliminating it from the body.

Limit Added Sugars and Refined Carbohydrates

A high intake of added sugars and refined carbohydrates can elevate triglyceride levels and lower HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Choose whole, unprocessed foods and limit sugary snacks and beverages.

Get Moving 

Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Incorporate activities like walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing into your routine.

Kick the Habit

Smoking damages blood vessels reduces HDL (good) cholesterol levels, and increases the risk of heart disease. Quitting smoking can improve cholesterol levels and overall cardiovascular health.

Manage Stress

Chronic stress can contribute to unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and impact cholesterol levels. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, yoga, or spending time in nature to promote relaxation and well-being.

Regularly Monitor Cholesterol Levels

Schedule regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor cholesterol levels and assess cardiovascular risk.

By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you can take proactive steps to support healthy cholesterol levels, reduce cardiovascular risk, and improve your overall quality of life. Remember that small changes can significantly improve cholesterol levels and long-term heart health.

Schedule a Consultation With Dr. Tina

If you’re looking for more guidance around nutrition, lifestyle factors, and supplementation, our Naturopathic Doctor can help with that. Use the link below to book a consultation with Dr. Tina Canto, ND.

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1 Join the Conversation

  1. Cathy Haskell says
    Apr 14, 2024 at 3:10 PM

    I appreciate the reminder on how to keep cholesterol in check. I want to maintain a healthy life style, though sometimes I need that wake up call. In my case, my current blood tests revealed I needed to work on a better lifestyle. I feel some changes to my diet, and some stress management will be beneficial. I'm a work in process, and loving it.

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