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Lifestyle Changes To Improve Cholesterol Levels: Our body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells and hormones and perform some vital functions. It is important to know about your cholesterol levels to be aware of the risks of heart disease. The levels of cholesterol in our body are distinguished as good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL). Too many levels of cholesterol in the body can enter the artery wall and form hard deposits leading to heart diseases. Therefore, to ensure balanced cholesterol levels, here are some lifestyle changes that you must include in your routine.

Watch the video below to learn about superfoods to manage cholesterol levels: 

1. Reduce Saturated Fats

Saturated fats are referred to as ‘bad fats’ and are found in animal-based foods like beef, pork, poultry and full-fat dairy products. According to the Mayo Clinic, saturated fats can raise your total cholesterol. Decreasing your consumption of saturated fats can reduce your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol the ‘bad’ cholesterol.

2. Increase Soluble Fibre

Regulating cholesterol levels is key to healthy body (Image Credits: Canva)

Soluble fibre gets easily dissolved in water and also breaks down into a gel-like substance in the colon. These fibres can reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the bloodstream. Some of the best food sources of soluble fibre include beans, barley, apples, oats, avocado, broccoli, chia seeds, and sweet potatoes among others.

3. Whey Protein

Whey protein is obtained from whey, which is the watery portion of milk that separates from the curds when making cheese. Whey protein increases the nutrient content of your diet and has amazing benefits on the immune system. The Mayo Clinic states that whey protein given as a supplement lowers both LDL cholesterol and total cholesterol as well as blood pressure.

4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Known as healthy fats, omega-3 fatty acids are an incredibly healthy nutrient that must be a part of your daily diet. The Cleveland Clinic states that omega-3 fatty acids help lower your triglyceride levels. Too many triglycerides in your blood (hypertriglyceridemia) raise your risk of atherosclerosis, and through this, can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Include omega-3 fatty acids in your diet for healthy body (Image Credits: Canva)

5. Eliminate Trans Fats

A diet laden with trans fats increases the risk of heart disease, the leading killer of adults. The more trans fats eaten, the greater the risk of heart and blood vessel disease, as per Mayo Clinic.

 

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment.)