How can people reduce their cholesterol levels naturally?

Answer 1

Essentially, there are two factors that contribute to the increase in LDL, or "low density lipoprotein".

Firstly, there are genetic traits in which the person may have a predisposition or inability to adequately metabolize the fats and cholesterol in their diet. Despite dietary efforts, the LDL, or "bad" cholesterol may remain elevated.

Secondly, it may be all about what one eats in his or her diet. Diets high in process foods, fatty foods, and high in cholesterol, contribute to the rise in this LDL number.

Effective ways to deal with LDL, and to lower it's number, is typically done in two ways. Perhaps the most important way is to reduce the amount of fatty or high cholesterol foods in one's diet. This, for many, is a lifestyle change that must be adhered to for the rest of their lives. Next, is the addition of medication to help effectively lower these levels -- these are called "Statins."

By increasing the metabolism of fats and cholesterol, via the liver, these Statins are effective and safe medications to reduce the risk of Heart Attacks, Strokes, and Coronary Artery Disease, that will increase the risk of death in patients. Patients on statins must be followed on a regular basis by their healthcare provers. Simple lab tests to evaluate the liver function is one way your prescriber can tell if the medication is work and is safe for your use.

Some samples of Statins used today are:

*Crestor
*Vytorin
*Lipitor
*Zocor
*Mevacor
*Pravachol

Caution should be taken with regard to "dietary supplements" or alternative medicines. There are few, if any, documented outcome based studies done with alternative or "natural" supplements with regard to the treatment of cholesterol today. Some of these supplements can actually cause irreparable liver damage due to toxicity, and should be avoided at all costs. Trust only those medications that are prescribed, and have the research to back their usefulness as a safe and efficacious treatment modality.