High Cholesterol Natural Remedies

Before we get to our high cholesterol natural remedies we need to find out... High Cholesterol, is it bad? 

Cholesterol is produced mainly by the liver and used by the body in a myriad of ways. It is a component of all cell membranes. It helps synthesize vitamin D and some hormones such as cortisol, adrenalin, estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. It is found in the myelin sheath in neurons. In the liver, it is converted to bile to help in the digestion of fats and the fat soluble vitamins, A, D, E and K. 

So why does cholesterol get such a bad rap? 

Cholesterol, a naturally occurring fat, links up with protein, to be transported through the blood. About one third to one fourth of cholesterol is HDL or high density lipoprotein, known as our “good Cholesterol” which brings cholesterol to the liver, to be processed. LDL or Low Density Lipoproteins is known as our “bad Cholesterol.” Cholesterol covers lesions in the arteries. So cholesterol in the arteries may reveal symptoms of possible heart problems already present rather than placing cholesterol as the cause of heart problems.

What increases cholesterol levels?

Most people believe that what they eat increases their cholesterol levels, but about 80% of our cholesterol is produced by the body and only 20% comes from the food we eat. Cholesterol in food is found in animal products, such as eggs, meat and dairy products. It is important to not deprive ourselves of healthy protein-rich foods in order to try to control cholesterol. Do make sure to choose good fats and stay away from bad fats. For many people, foods high in saturated fat and animal fats can raise your cholesterol levels. 

It is important to know that high cholesterol can have a metabolic cause, as the liver can be producing too much. 

Some Causes of High Cholesterol:  Heredity Stress and not managing stress Eating in excess Smoking Sedentary lifestyle Foods to avoid for your high cholesterol natural remedies: Red meat Dairy products (eggs are ok in moderation, as long as the yolk is runny) Coffee Fried foods, cooked or heated oils, saturated or trans fats. Bad salt (table salt and any food containing it, instead use naturally dried sea salt) Excess alcohol

If taking medication to reduce cholesterol such as Crestor, Zocor, Pravacol, Lipitor, these block the enzyme that produces cholesterol, but they also block the production of Coenzyme Q10, which oxygenates our cells and helps with the proper functioning of the heart. Therefore it is very important to take a COQ10 supplement. 

Side Effects of cholesterol-reducing medication:

• Muscular aches
• Cognitive functioning can be inhibited
• Fatigue
• Memory problems
• Liver intoxication
• Mood swings

Suggestions for high cholesterol natural remedies:

By making dietary and lifestyle changes we can reduce cholesterol by 15% in 10 weeks. 

• Maintain a healthy weight
• Eat a healthy diet
• Quit smoking
• Reduce stress
• Exercise

Aim for about 30 to 60 minutes of moderate exercise each day. Regular physical activity can cut the risk of heart disease and stroke in half! 

Walking is one of the simplest high cholesterol natural remedies. It's safe and effective and you can begin at any age. If you would like to know more about walking for fitness, why not join Carol Engelmann at Anti Aging 4 Mature Women for some tips and inspiration to get you started. You'll soon discover how your skin, mood and energy levels can benefit too. 

Research shows that water and soluble fiber such as psyllium hulls are very helpful in reducing cholesterol. 
Red Rice extract has proven to be a very effective and natural way to reduce cholesterol. However, similar to other cholesterol-reducing medications it also lowers COQ10 levels, so you must take a COQ10 supplement at the same time. 
Black cherry juice is very effective, as well as liquid chlorophyll.

Other natural supplements or Chinese herbs can be helpful to reduce cholesterol depending on your situation and personal needs. 

• Garlic
• Cayenne
• Psyllium hulls
• Flax seed oil
• Siberian ginseng

A consultation with a naturopath can help decide what is best for you.

How do I lower cholesterol and BP?

Submitted by Julie (Ohio) 

On my last physical my doctor told me my cholesterol was a bit high and blood pressure a bit elevated (not excessively). I know my diet is not the greatest but I am not over weight and my blood sugar levels are ok. I need to exercise more, that I know.

I work long hours (12 hour days) with no breaks in a very stressful environment....and oh yah...I work nights (18:30 to 06:30) every other week.

I used to run a lot and was thinking I'd get back into it. What say you? :)

Sue-Anne's Reply:
Getting back into running or another form of exercise is an excellent idea. Not only will it help lower your blood pressure and cholesterol, it will also help relieve the stress of your job, which is another key factor in high BP and cholesterol.

As I mention on my page about hypertension (see Circulatory System) high blood pressure can take as many as 10 years off your life. Hopefully that will motivate you to start moving! Yoga is excellent as well, one of my students reduced her BP by 10 points when she joined my yoga class.

Choose lean meats and good fats, such as extra virgin olive oil and first pressed cold oils, rather than hydrogenated or refined oils. Use sun dried sea salt rather than table salt. Sel Marin de Guerande can be found in most grocery stores. Also, when you start running again you will probably find you start craving more healthy foods.