Lower your cholesterol for health

Lowering cholesterol is a very popular health concern today. Now that many baby boomers are hitting 50, they are looking for ways to lower their cholesterol level.

Having a moderate cholesterol level is conducive to having a healthy heart. In this article, you will find many ways to do just that. You will learn not only diet tips, but also a few lifestyle changes that cut your cholesterol level!

1. People that get regular exercise have a much lower cholesterol level than those that do not. This is one very important lifestyle change that can help almost anyone suffering from high cholesterol.

2. Another change that people have found that works is going out less or trying to eat at home more often. Many times when we go out for dinner, we tend to choose high fat choices full of cholesterol. By staying home, we are able to restrict certain foods or use alternative foods that are much lower in cholesterol. An example of these alternative foods follow:

· You can try using margarine that is made from yogurt or soy products rather than butter or other choices that are high in cholesterol.

· Fat free sour creams and cheeses also offer lower cholesterol alternatives.

· Another great choice is eating a veggie burger instead of a conventional hamburger that is loaded with cholesterol.

· Try olive oil for salads and sautéed vegetables. This not only has less cholesterol, but it also has been proven to lower cholesterol levels.

· Cannola oil is another good oil for cooking. This oil has a much higher tolerance for heat, so you can cook at much higher temperatures with it.

What should my diet consist of if I want to lower my cholesterol?

· You should try to limit meats and dairy products. These are primarily animal products that are loaded with cholesterol.

· Try to maintain a healthy balance of foods, but reduce your daily calories from fat to 25%-30%.

· Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

· Eat plenty of fiber and whole-grains.

· Try to avoid ice cream, cakes, peanut butter, chocolate, and other snacks made with high cholesterol ingredients.

Once I get my cholesterol level under control, what can I do to maintain it?

· Maintain a healthy diet like discussed in the above sections, and be sure to exercise regularly.

· Be sure to get regular health checkups.

· Get your cholesterol level screened often- as often as is appropriate for your age. Check with your physician for this information.

· As with any other medical or health information, you should consult your doctor before trying any diet, exercise, or other lifestyle changes.

This information has given you the tools that you need in able to get that cholesterol level down and enjoy a healthier lifestyle. To find more ways of lowering your cholesterol, contact the American Heart Association. You can also find additional information at your local library or via Internet search engines. Remember to keep your heart healthy!