3 ways to manage high cholesterol

Cholesterol is an essential element produced naturally in the body. It is a type of fat found in the blood that helps the system function smoothly. However, excess cholesterol is harmful as it can narrow or clog the arteries and increase the risk of heart conditions. According to the CDC, about 94 million adults in the country have high cholesterol levels. Let’s take a look at cholesterol treatment, food plans, and tips to manage it:

Treatment
Livalo® is popularly prescribed by doctors to manage high cholesterol levels. It is classed under stanins or HMG CoA reductase inhibitors. It helps in reducing triglycerides and bad cholesterol while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or good cholesterol. Livalo® may lower the risk of developing heart conditions and hardened arteries, helping prevent a stroke and vascular diseases. It is also used to treat inherited high cholesterol in children of at least eight years of age. Some doctors may have to give Repatha® to manage high cholesterol. It is taken alone or with other options to effectively reduce the risk of heart diseases. Repatha® is categorized as a PCSK9 inhibitor. It is administered to aid people with homozygous or heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (inherited types of high cholesterol).

Food to eat and avoid
Grains like oats and barley contain a type of fiber called beta glucan, which combines with cholesterol-rich bile acids and reduces blood cholesterol. Fruits like apples, grapes, oranges, and strawberries can be quite beneficial. Eat leafy veggies like kale and spinach. Consume legumes, nuts, soy, and food rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Patients with high cholesterol should avoid deep-fried and fast foods as they may contain trans fats, which raise cholesterol levels. Processed meats like sausages, bacon, and hot dogs should be limited. Other foods that can increase cholesterol are cookies, cakes, ice cream, pastries, and sweets. They adversely affect your health and lead to several diseases.

Lifestyle changes
Daily exercise can improve your cholesterol levels. Work out for at least 30 minutes five times a week, or do vigorous aerobic exercise for 20 minutes thrice a week. Consider taking a brisk walk post-lunch or riding a bike to work. It is important to maintain a healthy BMI. Incorporate more activities into your routine, like playing a sport or doing yard work.