As people age, the level of cholesterol in their bodies often begins increasing. Although cholesterol is a natural substance, it is important to control the amount in our bodies. People who are overweight also commonly suffer from this problem. When cholesterol builds up in our arteries, it can lead to heart attacks, heart disease and strokes. There are several natural ways people can lower their cholesterol; which primarily involve lifestyle changes. By changing several things in your lifestyle, you can naturally lower your cholesterol; which will help you avoid needing drugs for this.
The first lifestyle change is to alter your diet. Reduce the amount of red meat you eat, and substitute it with lean types of meats, such as chicken and fish; which both contain protein necessary for a healthy body. Another good source of protein is found in tofu. Another dietary change required is to consume low fat milk and cheese as a substitute for whole milk and butter. Consume more fresh fruits and vegetables and increase the amount of garlic you eat. Drinking green tea also naturally will lower cholesterol.
Another natural way to reduce cholesterol is by exercising. For years, nutritionists and health experts have been talking about the benefits of exercise. 30 minutes of exercise a day is a great natural way to lower your cholesterol. Choose a type of exercise you enjoy, such as jogging, workout classes or walking at a brisk pace.
Begin taking supplements to help with this problem. Numerous natural supplements can help lower cholesterol, including psyllium; which is a soluble fiber. It is available in capsule form and is also in certain breakfast cereals. You can also get it by consuming Metamucil. Other natural supplements can also lower cholesterol; which include fish oil capsules; which contain Omega-3 fatty acids. Flaxseed is another natural supplement that helps with this.