High cholesterol can cause a variety of problems, including blocked arteries and eventually heart attacks. However there are several things you can do to keep cholesterol levels down and help prevent related health issues.
Cholesterol is a fatty, waxy substance that the body uses for the structure of cell membranes as well as in the production of bile. While it is essential for the body to function, too much cholesterol can wreak havoc.
Cholesterol is transported around the body by lipoproteins, which are either high density (HDL) or low density (LDL). Too much LDL cholesterol in the blood can cause a build up in the artery walls, leading to disease of the arteries. For this reason, LDL cholesterol is known as 'bad cholesterol', and levels need to be kept to a minimum. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is referred to as 'good cholesterol', and higher levels are fine.
Several studies have shown that garlic is useful is maintaining healthy levels of LDL in the blood, and can lead to less build up in the arteries and therefore less chance of developing heart disease in later life.
In order to help keep cholesterol low, expert herbalist Dr Serene Foster says: “It is important to reduce saturated fat, but also to increase fruit and vegetable consumption, as there is good evidence that they can help to cut the risk of disease, including some cancers and heart disease. Soluble fibre present in porridge oats, wholegrain cereals, beans peas and lentils can also help to lower cholesterol. Try to avoid having red meat more than once a fortnight and increase the amount of fish in your diet. Oily fish are particularly good because they will help to raise the good fats in your blood. In moderation nuts and seeds will also help to increase the good fats in your blood.
Exercise will reduce the bad fats in the blood, improve your circulation and help you to maintain desirable weight and reduce the body’s fat. It is also important to limit salt intake.” |
