Ten Easy Ways to Lower Your Cholesterol Level

When it comes to your health, cholesterol is a key factor. Whether your high cholesterol levels are a result of eating habits, heredity traits or a combination of both, it's important, and necessary, to lower it. Remember, HDL is the good kind of cholesterol and LDL is the bad kind.

This is a list of 10 easy and simply ways to lower your high cholesterol levels while simultaneously improving your health. All you need is a positive attitude and desire to get healthy. (Please note that these are in no particular order).

Cut back on meat and animal products

Animal products harbor a plethora of saturated fats. While a little saturated fat is okay, many people include too much meat/animal products in their diets which results in high cholesterol levels. By cutting back on these items (like butter, cream, milk, red meats) you will cut back on the amount of fat you take in. Switch to less fatty "meats" like shellfish, fish and chicken.

Substitute unsaturated fats for saturated fats

According to AnneCollins.com, "Unsaturated fat actually helps to lower cholesterol levels when it is substituted for saturated fat. Therefore, health professionals recommend that, when you do eat fats, unsaturated fats (polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats) be substituted for part of the saturated fat whenever possible." For example, use canola, vegetable or grapeseed oil when you cook and avoid lard, butter, etc.

Avoid fast foods

You should have fast foods 1-2 times a month tops, and even that's cutting it close. Fast foods are scarily high in calories, full of saturated fats and often don't provide healthy food options. You're 100 times better off making a sandwich and snacking on fruits instead of hitting the drive-thru. Just don't do it.

Eat complex carbohydrates

Don't fear the carbs - they're actually quite good for you and your body needs them. The problem's arise when items are added to these carbs (ie. Butter onto bread!). Consume more pasta, rice, potatoes and watch your cholesterol level's drop. Just make sure you avoid extra sauces and creams!

An apple a day...

It's simple: eat more fruits and vegetables. These items have an astounding amount of vitamins, minerals and disease-fighting antigens. Grab a banana in the morning, enjoy apple and carrot slices with your meal and have strawberries for dessert. Your body will thank you!

Snack on nuts

While nuts are highly caloric, they are great for your body and consequently your cholesterol levels. Instead of a protein bar or handful of M&M's, opt for a handful of unsalted, roasted nuts of your choice. Peanuts, walnuts, pistachios, almonds - they're all great!

Maintain a healthy weight

Whether maintaining a healthy weight means getting in shape or simply maintaining your current weight, make this a top priority. When you are at a healthy weight your body is happier, your heart is happier, your mind is happier and your cholesterol levels are lower.

Ride a Bike!

Well, you don't necessary have to ride a bike, but I think that's one of the most enjoyable forms of exercise (you get to people watch and you can pick up a few groceries while out and about!). Exercising is incredibly important, so make sure you do it. Try make a few goals for yourself or a check-off sheet and abide by them/it.

Don't stress!

I know from personal experience that this is not as easy as it sounds. Despite this slight inconvenience, it's necessary that you at least try to manage your stress levels. Stress is a major contributor to various diseases and health issues. Pay attention to your body and treat it well. Take up a yoga class, meditate for 5 minutes in the morning, stretch and do things which sooth your mind.

Take medication

On occasion, people are just cursed with bad genes that leave them with high cholesterol levels. While abiding by the above rules helps, it doesn't always cut it. That's why medications were developed to help lower cholesterol levels for those who have a difficult time doing so the natural way. According to webmd.com, "There are several types of cholesterol-lowering medications, but the most commonly prescribed are statins. They are very effective in lowering LDL levels in the majority of patients." Studies have shown that statins can lower LDL cholesterol by 20% to 60%." Some other medications that can lower cholesterol include: bile acid sequestrants, nicotine acid (niacin), fibric acids, cholesterol absorption inhibitors and combination drugs such as Vytorin and Advicor.