When people hear the word cholesterol, they immediately think of something bad. However, this fatty substance is something your body needs. Your HDL, or good cholesterol, helps to keep your heart disease risk low. Good HDL levels keep your blood vessel walls in good shape. However, LDL, or bad cholesterol, can cause big problems. When your LDL is too high, you can have a heart attack, stroke, or blood clots.
Doctors often prescribe medications known as statins to reduce your LDL levels. However, there are many things you can do from home that will help you reduce your cholesterol levels. Here are 10 ways to consider.
1. Get Rid of Trans Fat
Trans fatty acids are not good for your body. Not only do they contribute to heart disease by increasing your LDL, but they also cause issues such as Alzheimer’s, type 2 diabetes, and liver problems.
To avoid trans-fatty acids, you will need to avoid foods that contain them. These include things like factory-baked goods, donuts, and margarine. To make sure you aren’t getting food with trans fat, check the labels. Instead of margarine, find a butter substitute made with plant sterols and stanols. Doing so will help you cut your LDL levels by 15%.