The body needs cholesterol to function normally, but having too much cholesterol can increase the chance of heart disease. It is a fat, or lipoid, essential to our body if it is maintained at a proper level. It is only present in living animals and essential to form cell membranes, bile acids and hormones from the adrenal cortex and gonads. The excess cholesterol accumulates in the inner walls of the arteries and can cause various cardiovascular diseases.
We have to avoid red meats (especially the fat part), pork and dairy products. Although some studies affirm that a cup of red wine a day helps lower cholesterol, we need to drink plenty of water.
Increasing fiber is also really important because it helps our body to slow down the absorption of fats and sugars. High fiber foods include fruits, vegetables and beans. The fiber comes in two forms: soluble and insoluble. Increase the amount of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Oat bran is a more effective fiber.
Weight loss and control is another important step in lowering cholesterol. Cutting calories and increasing activity levels is the only safe, effective way to lose and manage weight. Excercise assists with weight control, good blood circulation, and proper functioning of various systems in the body. Different types of yoga for reducing cholesterol are vinyasa, hatha and kundalini.
Try to spend no more than 5 or 6 hours without eating in order to not become hypoglycemic. Consult the specialist about the consumption of chromium and magnesium. If you have high stress level, take a supplement of antioxidants (vitamin A, C, E and selenium) and ask the advice of a specialist.
Soy lecithin is the fat content of soybean (soya) and emulsifies cholesterol. This helps cholesterol from easily attaching to arteries, and our body expels is more easily. Unrefined vegetable oils (such as sunflower, soybean and linseed) are very effective in lowering cholesterol. Avoid excess sugar and artificial sweeteners.
