5 Lifestyle Changes to Improve Cholesterol

Trying to reduce your cholesterol naturally? Or give your cholesterol medication a helping hand? These 5 lifestyle changes can boost your heart health and help you get your numbers to a healthier place.

1. Eat heart-healthy foods
   Consider dietary changes that include choosing healthier fats, eliminating trans fats, eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, increasing soluble fiber, and adding whey protein.


2. Add more exercise
   With your doctor’s OK, aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. For example, try taking a brisk walk at lunch, biking to work, swimming extra laps, or playing a favorite sport.


3. Quit smoking
   If you smoke, consider quitting, which can improve your HDL cholesterol—and lower blood pressure and heart rate.


4. Lose extra weight
   Even a few extra pounds can contribute to high cholesterol. Losing as little as five to 10 percent of your body weight can have a positive effect on your cholesterol.


5. Limit alcohol consumption
   Alcohol consumption has been linked to high blood pressure, heart failure, and stroke. If you drink, do so in moderation. For healthy adults, that means one drink a day for women of all ages and men over 65, and up to two drinks a day for men 65 and younger.