How to Naturally Lower Cholesterol

In the modern age, we have prescription medications that are quite effective at lowering cholesterol levels. Unfortunately, these medications may have serious side effects. If you can't tolerate prescription cholesterol medications, you may want to consider these ways to naturally lower cholesterol.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Reduce red meat and saturated fats.
   
   Red meat and saturated fats are known to elevate cholesterol levels. Substitute vegetarian protein sources such as tofu for meat based foods. Restrict red meat consumption to twice per week, if at all to help naturally reduce cholesterol levels.
2. Add psyllium to your diet.
   
   Psyllium is a source of soluble fiber which has been shown in studies to lower cholesterol levels. Psyllium can be taken in capsule form or as a liquid such as Metamucil. It's most effective when taken with meals.
3. Exercise and weight loss.
   
   Lowering your weight and exercising at least three days per week for thirty minutes at a time can modestly reduce cholesterol levels. Plus, exercise helps to increase HDL, the good cholesterol.
4. Use plant stanols and sterols.
   
   These plant components help to reduce absorption of cholesterol from food as well as help to eliminate it from the body. Studies have shown they can reduce cholesterol levels by as much as 15%.You can find them in Benecol magarine spread as well as some of their competitors.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to check with your doctor before attempting to lower cholesterol naturally. In some cases, your cholesterol level may be so high that you require prescription medications.