Cholesterol

Heart disease is a serious problem both in America and worldwide, and the major cause of heart disease is cholesterol. Not all cholesterol is bad, though. There are two types - Low density lipoproteins or LDL and high density lipoproteins (HDL). It’s LDL that we have to be careful of. HDL is beneficial.

LDL causes plaque build-up in the arteries, which blocks the flow of blood to major organs such as the heart and the brain. HDL cleans the arteries of excess cholesterol, which is then sent to the liver where it is broken down and expelled from the body.

The traditional approach to heart disease has been to lower LDL production by avoiding saturated fats found in things like fried foods, coconuts, white bread, gravies, etc. While it’s a good idea to avoid these kinds of foods, doctors are more and more focusing on HDL as a means to rid the body of excess cholesterol.

Cholesterol and Food

Many studies have found that some foods can aid in cholesterol reduction. Soy protein can achieve this result if consumed on a regular basis. You need to eat at least 4 servings a day, with each serving consisting of at least 6.25 grams of soy protein, for a total of 25 grams a day. Soy protein can be found in soy milk, tofu, and some commercial products like energy bars.

Nuts such as pecans and walnuts also have the effect of lowering LDL and maintaining a good level of HDL. Mediterranean style diets that include lots of nuts have been found to reduce cholesterol. Beans and olive oil, as well as raw onions and garlic (all typical of Mediterranean diets) are beneficial as well.

Fiber is an important aid in cholesterol reduction. Fiber is found in many foods including oats, barley, flax seed and many vegetables and fruits.

Herbs for Cholesterol Health

Guggal is a resin that comes from the mukal tree. This small plant is native to India, and the resin has been used in traditional Indian medicine to treat obesity, digestive problems and menstrual problems. Since the 1960’s, guggal has been used in the treatment of heart disease.

Curcumin is an extract from turmeric, a common spice, which itself has health benefits. Curcumin has been found to be beneficial in reducing cholesterol levels.

Policosanol is refined from sugar cane. It has the effect of both lowering LDL levels and raising HDL levels.

Cholesterol and Lifestyle

Heart disease has been called the rich man’s disease, and it’s true that it’s more prevalent in developed first world countries, where people have a more sedentary lifestyle.

Exercise can play an important role in reducing cholesterol while also strengthening the heart and lowering weight.

People who quit smoking will see a rise in their HDL levels after only one week of non-smoking.

Avoiding all those fast foods like French fries, hamburgers, fried chicken and limiting carbohydrate foods like sugar, flour, potatoes and white rice is also a good idea.

As you can see, there are many options open to you if you suffer from high cholesterol. Be careful what you eat and try some of the herb supplements, and you will be on the road to health.