How to Lower Cholesterol Levels
Many people believe that cholesterol is bad but this is not entirely true. The body needs cholesterol so that the nerves, cells and hormones function properly. Cholesterol becomes bad when it builds up on the arterial walls (plaque) decreasing the flow of blood into key areas of the body. If plaque buildup continues, the chances of heart attack and stroke rise.
Cholesterol should be kept in control but most of what we eat has hydrogenated fats and carbohydrates and this causes an imbalance and can lead to chronic ailments. Your cholesterol levels should not exceed 240mg/dL and if it does, you must decrease it quickly and naturally.
You can do this by:
Eating the Right Foods
The following foods cut bad cholesterol (LDL) levels by increasing good cholesterol (HDL).
Olive oil
Onions and garlic
Foods rich in soluble fiber
Omega 3s
Herbs such as basil, turmeric and rosemary
Stay Away from Certain Foods and Drinks
These foods raise cholesterol levels in the body and they are:
Caffeine
Alcohol
Vegetable oil and other hydrogenated fats
Refined sugars and carbs
Trans fats
Avoid Smoking
When you stop smoking, your good cholesterol levels go up and this improves your overall health. Smokers are also more susceptible to heart ailments and blood pressure complications; smoking is a bad habit that should be stopped.
Exercise
Exercising is an easy way to bring down your bad cholesterol levels. The best exercises are burst and weight training.
Use Essential Oils
These oils are good for your health and the best ones are lavender oil and rosemary oil that support the functions of the heart.