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Cholesterol is a kind of fat found in the body called Lipid. There are two types of Cholesterol. They are HDL (High Densitity Lipoprotein) commonly called the "good" cholesterol. and, LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein typically called the "bad" cholesterol. Cholesterol (LDL) and heart disease are so much related in that too much of LDL can potentially travel to the blood stream and clog the arteries leading to the heart and brain. The end result could be a stroke or heart attack.

On the other hand, HDL (the "good" cholesterol) aid in the prevention of stroke and heart attacks. HDL is transported from tissues of the body to the liver. Thus, if you possess low levels of HDL it increases the danger of heart disease. Heart disease is the number one killer of both sexes and having high cholesterol makes it twice the risk of heart disease. Unfortunately, the symptons for high cholesterol are not detected unless a blood test is done. A reading of 190 mg/dl is considered very high and your doctor will no doubt recommend you practicing a healthier lifestyle, along with a follow-up of drugs to lower same.

Approximately 20% of food intake affects cholesterol, while the other 80% is due to age, race, and family history. In spite of the the above, one has to take responsibility of your ultimate outcome. One of the ways to do so is to visit your Health Care Provider in order to be cognizant of your numbers (cholesterol/blood pressure). Some of the tips you can adapt to reduce high cholesterol are:

HEALTHY DIET

It is paramount that soluable fibers are included in one's daily diet. Some of the foods that consist of fiber are fruits and vegetables, whole grains such as oats/barley and nuts. Limit the intake of meats and try to include fish made up omega 3 fatty acids, e.g. wild salmon, sardines and herring which are low in saturated fats. Also, lower the intake of fatty foods by at least 30% of total calories per day.

One can reduce their blood sugar by consuming more complex carbohydrates like, sweet potatoes/whole wheat products. Do avoid products like white flour/bread and sweet pastries which will only spike your blood sugar and tryglycerides which will leave you fatigued and irritable.

EXERCISE

Before you attempt any form of exercise program, it is advisable to receive the okay from your doctor. It is vital that one maintain a healthy weight through physical exercise. At least 30 minutes per day should be practiced. Unfortunately, we cannot get away from it. Regular

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