Choose the Safe Route to Increase HDL
There are two paths a person may opt to take when
considering how to increase HDL
(high-density lipoprotein) level. One is to take the natural route â
eliminating artery-clogging food from oneâs diet, quitting smoking, and
exercising. Those with health issues need to get the green light from their
doctors before embarking on an exercise program. Using these natural remedies
to reduce bad cholesterol and increase the good type takes some discipline. For
those who are determined to embrace wellness and enjoy life longer, every
little effort can add up and be worth it.
Overweight individuals, in particular, can help
themselves a great deal by shedding excess pounds. By losing weight, HDL level
may be raised substantially. The other path, which comes with side effects, is
to take doctor-prescribed medication. There are numerous classes of drugs, one
of which your doctor may prescribe for you in order to address cholesterol
disorder. Itâll be useless, though, to keep taking drugs without watching your
diet or giving up smoking. Smoking has the tendency to let cholesterol level
shoot up by 15 to 20 percent.
Thereâs truth to the notion that red wine â owing to
its polyphenol content -- can help increase
HDL, so consume it in moderation. Persons with high levels of cholesterol
are normally advised by their physicians to partake of high-fiber whole grains
(examples are brown rice and oatmeal), leafy green vegetables and fruits (such
as apples, oranges, pineapple, and other heart-enhancers) and food rich in
omega-3 fatty acids (such as mackerel, sardines, and salmon). Note that persons
who adhere to a Mediterranean-style diet (or prepare meals using healthy fats)
are likely to have higher HDL or good cholesterol levels. Food items with
phytosterols including asparagus, spinach, onions, ginger, etc. also help
maintain cholesterol level. Home remedies such as taking a mixture consisting
of some cinnamon mixed with a fraction of a teaspoon of ginger in a cup of hot
water may help lower cholesterol.
Those who are unable to eat food that supply a
sufficient amount of nutrients the body needs for optimum functioning can get
by with natural supplements. Magnesium can lower total cholesterol and LDL and
raise HDL. Supplements with phytosterols (naturally occurring compounds in
plant membranes and cells) may help reduce blood cholesterol levels.
Whichever route you take â natural, chemical, or a
combination of both, remember to play it extra safe and consult a medical
expert when setting out to decrease LDL and increase HDL.