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Lowering Cholesterol

Also called: Reducing Cholesterol, Lowering LDL, Lower Cholesterol, Lowering Bad Cholesterol, Reducing LDL, Reduce Cholesterol, Reducing Bad Cholesterol, Lowering High Cholesterol

- Summary
- Role of fat in LDL
- Food choices
- NCEP guidelines
- Other strategies
- Questions for your doctor

Reviewed By:
David Slotnick, M.D.
Robert I. Hamby, M.D., FACC, FACP
Kerry Prewitt, M.D., FACC

Other strategies for reducing LDL

Exercise and LDL levels
Greater amounts of body fat usually mean higher levels of cholesterol. Research has shown that even a modest increase of one pound a year over time can have a significant impact on cholesterol levels. One of the best ways to reduce body fat is to exercise.

Aside from the cardiovascular benefits, exercise increases muscle mass and triggers a series of reactions in the body that help to burn more fat and to lower cholesterol levels. Furthermore, exercise reduces levels of triglycerides, another type of fat in the blood. The American Heart Association and the National Institutes of Health recommend that people exercise for at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week. 

Medications and LDL levels
If changes in diet and lifestyle are unsuccessful in lowering cholesterol, medications may be prescribed. Often, the medication will be a cholesterol-lowering statin. These medications have shown excellent results in improving cholesterol ratios, but are not suitable for everyone.

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Review Date: 03-03-2007
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