Why treat high cholesterol?

For a very small percentage of the population, the genetic predisposition for heart disease is so strong that no matter what steps are taken, heart disease is inevitable. Fortunately for the vast majority of us, preventing heart disease is within our control.

Almost anyone can postpone or completely avoid developing heart disease or strokes. All the known factors that increase the risk of heart disease including high blood pressure, diabetes, physical inactivity, obesity, smoking and high cholesterol can all be managed. Whether it is dietary changes, increased physical activity, lowering your cholesterol, and stopping smoking are powerful defenses against developing heart disease. Addressing only one factor though is not the best way to go about preventing heart disease.

Start by switching to a diet low in solid fats like butter, margarine, shortening and trans fats. Low fat protein such as lean meat, fish, poultry legumes, peas, beans and lentils are good sources of protein and excellent alternatives to high fat meats. Fruits and vegetables are good sources of vitamins and minerals and are low in cholesterol and fat. Vegetables and fruits also contain substances that are also found in plants that may help prevent cardiovascular disease. “Various nutrients found in whole grains play a role in regulating blood pressure and heart health.”[1]

Start an exercise program or increase whatever physical activity you currently engage in. Exercise burns calories, may raise HDL or good cholesterol, relieve stress which is also a contributor to heart disease and strengthens the heart muscle, improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure.

If you smoke, you already know what you should do.

When diet and exercise are not enough to lower your cholesterol consider a good Omega fish oil high in EPA and DHA like Omega1000EC and reputable proven herbal products like HeartSavior and LipidShield Plus. These products have been clinically proven to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

What are the benefits of lowering cholesterol?

There is no question that reducing the amount of LDL or bad cholesterol circulating through your blood vessels will lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke. There are numerous studies concluding that for each 10% drop in LDL cholesterol, the risk of having a heart attack drops 20-30%.

The best approach to preventing heart disease is to combine as many of the above changes as possible and stay consistent. Starting and stopping your exercise programs, diet changes and going on and off supplements is not helpful. Be consistent and you stand the best chance of avoiding heart attacks and strokes.

The November words to live by: