How to Lower Your Cholesterol?
High cholesterol is a common health issue that affects millions of Americans. DHEC’s State Health Improvement Office reported that in 2021, over a third of adults (37.7%) in South Carolina reported that their blood cholesterol was checked and that they were told it was high. This prevalence is higher than the US prevalence.
Left untreated, high cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke. The good news is that high cholesterol is often manageable through lifestyle changes and medical treatment. The key is to work closely with your healthcare providers to monitor your cholesterol levels and get the right care.
5 Easy Tips to Lower Your Cholesterol Naturally
While medications can help manage cholesterol, there are also many natural ways to lower your levels through diet and lifestyle changes. Here are our top 5 tips you can try at home:
1. Eat More Soluble Fiber:
Foods high in soluble fiber like oats, beans, lentils, and berries can help lower LDL (“bad”) cholesterol by binding to cholesterol in the digestive system and eliminating it from the body. Aim for 5-10 grams of soluble fiber per day.
>> Read More: Healthy Carbohydrates to Add to Your Diet
2. Choose Healthy Fats:
Unsaturated fats found in olive oil, avocados, nuts, and fatty fish can help raise HDL (“good”) cholesterol while lowering LDL. Limit saturated and trans fats from fried foods, baked goods, and processed meats.
> Read More: The Skinny on Dietary Fats
3. Get Moving:
Regular exercise like brisk walking, swimming, or cycling can boost HDL cholesterol. Aim for at least 30 minutes per day, 5 days a week.
> Read More: Small Ways to Move More
4. Lose Extra Weight:
Carrying excess weight, especially around the abdomen, can contribute to high cholesterol. Losing even a small amount of weight through diet and exercise can help improve your numbers.
> Read More: Modifying Your Behavior for Weight Loss
5. Quit Smoking:
Smoking lowers HDL cholesterol and increases the risk of heart disease. Quitting can help improve your cholesterol profile within just a few weeks.
> Read More: Quitting smoking benefits your health and your wallet
Making these simple lifestyle changes can go a long way in managing your cholesterol naturally. Always consult your doctor before making significant changes, especially if you’re currently taking cholesterol-lowering medications.
The Role of Your Primary Care Doctor
Your primary care doctor plays a crucial role in managing your cholesterol. During your annual physical, they will check your cholesterol levels and help you understand your numbers. Things like your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and triglycerides all provide important insights into your heart health.
If your cholesterol levels are elevated, your primary care doctor can work with you to develop a plan to lower them. This may include recommendations for dietary changes, exercise, weight management, and possibly medication. Regular checkups allow your doctor to monitor your progress and make adjustments as needed.
When to See a Cardiologist
In some cases, you may need more specialized care from a cardiologist, such as those at CMC Cardiology. Cardiologists are medical doctors who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the heart and cardiovascular system.
You may benefit from seeing a cardiologist if:
- Your cholesterol levels remain high despite lifestyle changes and treatment from your primary care doctor
- You have a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol
- You have other risk factors for heart disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of smoking
- You’ve had a heart attack or other cardiovascular event
Cardiologists can perform more advanced testing, such as imaging scans, to get a closer look at your heart health. They can also prescribe more intensive cholesterol-lowering medications and provide guidance on managing your condition.
READ MORE:
What Should My Blood Pressure Be?
Read our insightful article to learn how blood pressure is measured & what is considered a healthy blood pressure range.
Take Control of Your Cholesterol
Remember, regular checkups with your primary care doctor and prompt specialty care when needed are essential for managing your cholesterol and protecting your heart health. By working closely with your healthcare team, you can take proactive steps to lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of serious cardiovascular problems.
Regular cardiovascular screenings are a proactive way to prioritize your heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. By staying up-to-date on your screenings and working closely with your primary care provider and CMC Cardiology, you can take charge of your heart health and enjoy a happier, healthier life.
Remember, your heart is your most important muscle & the importance of heart screenings matters. Don’t wait until it’s too late – schedule your cardiovascular screenings today and invest in a healthier future for your heart!
Don’t have a primary care provider?
No problem! CMC Primary Care is accepting new patients at multiple convenient locations across Horry County. No matter where you live, there is a CMC Primary Care doctor near you.
We have offices in the following locations:
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