Cholesterol is a naturally occurring substance that is made by your liver. It is required by your body for the proper function of cells and nerves. It is also needed to balance your hormone levels. Although your body needs cholesterol, excess cholesterol can build up and form a fatty plaque on the walls of your arteries. This can decrease the flow of blood throughout your body. If too much plaque builds up, it can lead to poor cardiovascular health. Here are some things you can do to support healthy cholesterol levels.
Diet
Some foods, like meat and eggs, naturally contain cholesterol. But you don’t need to limit them to keep your cholesterol levels healthy. Instead, you can eat more healthy fruits and vegetables and foods that contain healthy fats like nuts, seeds, salmon and avocado. Oil oil, gluten free grains, and beans have also been studied for their ability to support healthy cholesterol levels.
Green Tea
Green tea is one of the healthiest drinks you can consume. It is loaded with anti-oxidants which help reduce inflammation. It has been studied for it’s ability to help you maintain healthy cholesterol levels along with many other health benefits. The other possible health benefits of green tea include supporting brain health, increased fat burning, and healthy blood sugar levels.
Hydrogenated Fats
Hydrogenated fats, also know as trans fats, are not being used as much as they were. But they are still being used in processed foods and in restaurants. It is very difficult for your body to get rid of trans fats. And while they are in your body, they cause inflammation and can increase your cholesterol levels. One of the most common uses of unhealthy fats is as a buttery spread. Real butter costs more than factory expelled oils and is not as easy to use as a processed liquid spread that contains unhealthy fats.
Exercise
Getting your body moving is one of the best things you can do for your overall wellness. It is especially good for your cardiovascular and lymphatic system health. It doesn’t have to be long strenuous exercise. It needs to be just enough to raise your heart rate. A brisk walk, bouncing on a mini-trampoline, working in the yard, and dancing can all be part of a healthy exercise routine.
Supplements
There are many reasons why a healthy diet and exercise is beneficial to your health. But you may be someone that is prone to less than optimum cholesterol levels. A functional medicine doctor, naturopath, and/or chiropractor can help you achieve healthy cholesterol levels. Or you can try some of the supplements that have been heavily researched for their positive affects on cholesterol levels. These include red rice yeast, garlic, fiber, and omega-3 oils.
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