Know The Effective Lifestyle Changes To Control Cholesterol Levels

Medications can be beneficial in enhancing your cholesterol profile, however, if you prefer to initiate lifestyle adjustments before considering medication, it can help you in the long run.

Diet To Control Cholesterol Levels

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High cholesterol levels elevate the likelihood of heart disease and heart attacks. Medications can be beneficial in enhancing your cholesterol profile, however, if you prefer to initiate lifestyle adjustments before considering medication, it can help you in the long run. For those who are currently on medication, implementing these changes can enhance your treatment.

Effective Lifestyle Changes To Manage Cholesterol Levels:

Dr. Rajkumar - Internal Medicine, ISIC said, "The most effective lifestyle changes to manage cholesterol levels include adopting a healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, eliminating tobacco use, and managing stress."

He also laid down some lifestyle changes required to manage cholesterol levels:

• Regular physical activity helps increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is good for heart health, while reducing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the bad kind. Engaging in activities like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming for at least 30 minutes a day can significantly impact cholesterol levels.
• Maintaining a healthy weight is essential as excess body fat is linked to higher cholesterol levels. By following a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise, weight management becomes attainable.
• Eliminating tobacco use is crucial as smoking damages blood vessels and lowers good HDL cholesterol levels, while raising bad LDL cholesterol levels. Quitting smoking is one of the most impactful changes one can make for improving cholesterol levels.
• Lastly, managing stress through techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and participating in hobbies can positively impact cholesterol levels. Stress can drive unhealthy eating behaviors and increase cortisol levels, which can negatively impact cholesterol.

In addition, Dr. Bhavana Diyora, who is a Nutritionist and Preventive Wellness Specialist at MyGALF said, "Adequate sleep, proper hydration, and the avoidance of processed and fried foods contribute to overall well-being, while choosing lean proteins and healthy snacks are additional steps toward better cholesterol management. 

 

Lastly, Dr. Jagadeesh H V, who is a Consultant - Interventional Cardiology, at Manipal Hospital, Varthur, Bangalore said, "If high cholesterol or heart disease are a part of your family history then you need to be extra cautious and should get your total cholesterol, ECG, ECHO and TMT done every 6 months. You should consume heart healthy food, reduce saturated fat intake (red meat, full-fat dairy products), eat food rich in omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds) and increase fiber intake and intake of fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts."

 

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]