Lifestyle Changes to Control High Cholesterol

High cholesterol leads to the clogging of your blood vessels. This is a leading cause of heart attacks. Controlling high cholesterol through medications is necessary to prevent heart disease. In the initial stages, however, you can manage it through lifestyle changes. Even if your cholesterol levels are high and you require regular medication, lifestyle changes can help you manage them more effectively. Here are a few lifestyle changes that can help you manage or reduce your cholesterol levels.

Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet

Too much saturated fat is injurious to health. Avoid or limit full-fat dairy products and red meat. Avoid hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. This will reduce LDL (low-density lipoprotein), a type of cholesterol considered harmful. Include walnuts, flaxseeds, and certain fatty fish, which contain omega-3 fatty acids that are very good for your heart. Oatmeal, kidney beans, apples, pears, etc., are high in soluble fiber. Please include them in your diet to help reduce cholesterol absorption.

Exercise Regularly

Physical activity improves your general health. At least 30 minutes of exercise on most days of the week is recommended to maintain a healthy cholesterol level. You can exercise continuously or break it up into multiple shorter periods. Walk to your office, take the stairs, walk as you talk on your mobile, etc. Make movement a part of your life.

Stop Smoking

Smoking is highly injurious to health. The moment you stop smoking, your health begins to improve dramatically. Your blood pressure and heart rate return to a normal rate. Gradually, your circulation improves and the risk of a heart attack reduces.

Maintain Your Weight

As your weight increases, so does your fat. As fat increases in your body, so does cholesterol in your blood. This will lead to clogged arteries and high blood pressure. This is a dangerous combination for your heart. So, watch what you eat and burn up the calories through exercise.

Prioritize Preventive Care for a Healthier Future

These simple steps can go a long way in helping to control your blood cholesterol levels. Watch your health. If you feel you may be at risk or if everyday activities are becoming increasingly challenging to manage, consider scheduling a check-up. High cholesterol and high blood pressure often do not exhibit symptoms in the early stages. A regular health checkup after the age of 40 is necessary to monitor their health.

Rela Hospital is a quaternary care hospital. We emphasized preventive care. Our general medicine department provides excellent care for lifestyle diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. If you need guidance on managing your overall health and metabolic conditions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.