High cholesterol levels can put you at risk from heart problems which, when not addressed immediately, can trigger heart attacks, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues. There are many factors that can contribute to elevated cholesterol such as diet, stress, heat, and even medication just to name a few.
Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent your cholesterol level from shooting through the roof such as the ones below.
- Quit smoking. One of the rules to help you lower your cholesterol level is to quit smoking. The carcinogens that are present in your cigarette can actually elevate your heart rate and your HDL levels which can put you at high risk of heart problems. Quitting can actually provide you with huge benefits such as better immune system, lower cholesterol levels, and improved cardiovascular health just to name a few.
- Eat heart-healthy foods. Since the likeliest suspect to high cholesterol levels is food, you need to take stock of what goes in your belly. Doctors and nutritionists alike recommend that you pile more vegetables and fruits on your plate as they are good for the heart. Cruciferous vegetables, nuts, seeds, and fruits are needed in reducing one’s cholesterol levels as well as dissolve any plaque that may be building up on your arteries. Another plus to eating these foods is that they can boost your cardiovascular health.
- Start working out. Living a sedentary life can take a toll on your cholesterol levels as well as your cardiovascular health. This is why it is important that you take the time to workout on a daily basis. Exercising doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to work out in the gym because you can still do your fitness routine in your own home. You can use free weights to increase resistance or use your bodyweight to work your muscles. By elevating your heart rate, your body will start burning fats to fuel you with energy and to boost blood flow as well which can prevent any clogged arteries.
- Drink in moderation. Everything must be in moderation if you wish to reduce your cholesterol levels. If you are fond of going on a night out with your friends, you need to lower your intake of alcoholic beverages to one glass if you are a woman and two for men. Too much can cause your cholesterol levels to go up and may cause heart attack if you are not careful. It’s difficult to go cold turkey in terms of your alcohol consumption but you can reduce your intake every time.
- Skip refined carbohydrates. Refined carbohydrates can also cause your cholesterol to go up and may even cause blockage too. Choose whole grains instead of refined carbohydrates like pasta as it will help keep your weight down too.
Reducing your cholesterol level is a must if you want to avoid cardiovascular problems in the long run. The risk of heart attacks and stroke is high for those who don’t maintain good cholesterol levels which is why following the rules above can be a huge help.
Sources: doctoroz.com
