The Best Natural Cures for High Cholesterol

High cholesterol is a serious medical condition that can lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Luckily, there are many natural treatments available that can help reduce your cholesterol levels. Here are some of the best vitamins, supplements, foods, and other natural remedies for lowering cholesterol.

Vitamins: A number of vitamins, such as vitamins A, D, E, and C are important for reducing cholesterol. Vitamin A, which is found in fish, beef liver, carrots, squash, broccoli, egg yolks, cantaloupe, and sweet potatoes, helps improve your body's regular cholesterol balance. Vitamin D is found in milk, fish, eggs, and fortified cereals, and it helps to lower the level of bad cholesterol (LDL). Vitamin E, found in nuts, whole grains, and vegetable oils, helps protect against artery damage and lowers bad cholesterol levels. Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, helps to reduce LDL cholesterol levels.

Supplements: There are natural supplements available that can help fight high cholesterol. These include niacin, omega-3 fatty acids, red yeast rice, policosanol, and plant sterols. Niacin, an essential vitamin, is available in both synthetic and natural forms, and it helps to reduce both the level of bad cholesterol and the size of the bad cholesterol particles. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, help to reduce the amount of fatty acid in the blood and also lower LDL cholesterol. Red yeast rice, policosanol, and plant sterols help to prevent the buildup of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body.

Foods: Eating certain foods can be just as effective as taking supplements for lowering cholesterol levels. These foods include oatmeal, apples, barley, beans, nuts, and flaxseed. Oatmeal contains beta-glucan, which helps to reduce bad cholesterol, as well as providing fiber. Apples are high in pectin, a dietary fiber which helps to lower cholesterol levels. Barley, beans, nuts, and flaxseed help to reduce bad cholesterol, while also providing plenty of fiber.

In addition to these natural remedies, exercise is also important for reducing cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity helps to reduce the amount of bad cholesterol in your body, as well as helping to maintain a healthy weight. Finally, keep in mind that lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and eating a healthy diet, are also essential for reducing cholesterol levels. Taking steps to lower your cholesterol can go a long way towards improving your overall health.