To safely reduce cholesterol, you must lower the "bad," or low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), and raise the "good," or high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL). Cholesterol works in the cells to help build new cells and hormones. But when the low-density lipoprotein cholesterol builds up, it can cause fatty deposits to develop in the blood vessels. These fatty deposits can cause a blockage, which may result in a heart attack or stroke.
Instructions
1. Quit smoking to improve your HDL levels. According to the American Heart Association, smoking lowers the levels of your good cholesterol.
2. Eat foods that have been proven to help lower cholesterol. According to the Mayo Clinic, these include oatmeal, walnuts, butter spread substitutes made from plant stanols, almonds, bran and olive oil.
3. Lose weight to achieve your ideal healthy weight. Check with your doctor to determine your ideal healthy weight and to arrange a diet best suited for your medical condition.
4. Exercise each day to improve your HDL levels and lower your LDL levels. Check with your doctor to design the appropriate exercise regimen for your medical condition.
5. Avoid high-cholesterol foods, such as red meat, eggs, fried foods and foods high in fat or trans fat.
6. Eat a healthy diet. Both the Mayo Clinic and the American Heart Association recommend a diet with whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lean meats.
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