Lifestyle Tips That Lower Cholesterol

Lose Weight

Carrying even a few extra pounds contributes to high cholesterol. However, small changes will help individuals lose weight and lower LDL cholesterol. Quit drinking sugary beverages and drink more water instead. Pretzels and air-popped popcorn make for excellent healthy snacks. When a craving for sweets strikes, try fat-free ice cream, or jelly beans that contain little fat.

Individuals should look for easy ways to implement more physical activity in daily life. Instead of taking the elevator, they should take the stairs and choose parking far away from the office to force themselves to walk. Individuals using their lunch break to take walks at the nearest park will help drop needed pounds. Workers who spend most of their day in front of the computer should take regular breaks and step away from their desks and screens.

Monitor Levels

Patients diagnosed with high cholesterol will need their doctor to monitor them and perform regular blood tests. Children should first be monitored between nine and eleven years old. If tests come back normal, blood screen tests should be done every four years. Individuals with a family history of high LDL cholesterol or increased risk for heart disease may be asked to come in more frequently. In addition to routine screening, if any problems are identified such as high triglycerides, doctors will likely recommend medication or other lifestyle changes. Typically, physicians will monitor their patient's cholesterol by ordering a fasting lipid panel to get the most accurate results.