Cholesterol is an unsaturated waxy solid that is manufactured in the body. Cholesterol helps to produce bile and metabolize fat soluble vitamins. It also has important function with respect to cell membrane management. Cholesterol can be got from diet or made in the tissue membranes. High density lipoprotein (HDL) that helps to deliver cholesterol to the liver also helps remove cholesterol from the arteries and hence helps in protecting against heart disease. Dietary cholesterol is otherwise called low density lipoprotein (LDL) that carries cholesterol from the liver to the tissue membranes.

Increased cholesterol amounts in the arteries can lead to plaques that gradually damage arteries over time. This can lead to heart attack, stroke, or other heart ailments. Hence for all issues regarding cholesterol management for heart and vascular health, the underlying remedy lies in lowering LDL cholesterol. Increasing the HDL cholesterol levels is mostly overlooked but the main advantage of this approach is that it can improve removal of cholesterol from dangerous locations in the arteries.

Cholesterol balance can be brought about by making some diet changes. Macro nutrients that affect cholesterol include protein, fiber, and fats. Vitamins and minerals that comprise micro nutrients can affect lipid peroxidation. Fiber is very helpful in lowering total and LDL cholesterol levels while raising HDL levels according to the American Heart association (AHA). Protein especially whey protein has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol. Another great cholesterol managing protein is soy.

A number of natural products and the key nutrients in them can also help with cholesterol management. Most notable among them are DHA, Omega-3s and 6s, EPA, Vitamin E, Vitamin B, and Niacin. There are other flavonoids that can help with cholesterol care. These include cocoa, tea, and fruit.

Citrus bioflavonoids when combined with vitamin E can also help with antioxidant management. These include fruits such as pomegranate and grape seed extract which help to limit LDL oxidation. Garlic, is also a great cholesterol managing botanical as it contains antioxidant constituents that help to lower total and LDL cholesterol while still maintaining HDL levels. Some other types of algae and pine bark extract also help to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

Apart from the above there are other well researched methods also to lower the bad and increase the good cholesterol levels in the body.

Disclaimer: The contents of this article are for informational purposes only. We aim to be as accurate as possible, but there may be some unintentional omission of information. The content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on within this article.



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