When Your Doctor Tells You To Reduce Cholesterol

It was not exactly the news you wanted to hear. But your doctor has just told you to reduce cholesterol or else....... Once you get over the initial shock of his announcement, you should quickly realize that things are not really as bad as they may seem. There are so many ways to accomplish this simple task that could save your life. And while some of them will require some lifestyle changes, there are ways to lower cholesterol levels without changes that may seem overly painful.

A quick and easy way to reduce cholesterol is to walk. Yes even moderate exercise like walking has been proven to lower cholesterol levels. Pick a good time for you, usually in the morning or evening, and take a nice 30 minute walk around where you live. Yes you may have to get up a bit earlier if your evenings are full, but you'll be amazed at how much you come to enjoy this time. Not only will you be lowering your cholesterol levels, you'll find your mind and body benefit in other ways as well. Some people like to walk around a track, others around their neighborhood park. We think walking through your neighborhood is best. You'll enjoy it more and you won't have to drive to get there.

When it comes to making changes in eating habits, that's when most people panic. Don't. It's not as bad as you think. We'll start with dairy products. Leave the whole milk at the grocery store and get 1% or skim milk instead. Replace the ice cream with a tasty fruit sorbet. What you are trying to accomplish is a break with foods that are high in saturated fats. Dairy products are great. They provide many vitamins and proteins. Just go with the low fat or no fat variety and you'll still get all the other benefits.

OK, now it's going to get a little tougher. You need to cut out the double cheeseburger and fries. Any fried meats and vegetables will send your cholesterol levels soaring. These products are filled with saturated and trans fats. Remove them from your diet. If you want to reduce cholesterol go instead with meats that are bakes or broiled. Get rid of anything fried.

We understand that you probably didn't celebrate when your doctor said it's time to reduce cholesterol, but there's a reason he said that to you. High cholesterol can result in high blood pressure and heart disease. Most of us simply don't get enough exercise and eat things that our body just doesn't need. Think about how much better you'll feel if you begin a moderate exercise program and eat healthier foods. That in itself should provide enough motivation to make the minor changes necessary.

And once you notice the difference in how you feel, then it will be time to start celebrating.