Making these changes can help keep your cholesterol levels in a healthy range.
Cholesterol has a reputation for increasing your risk for heart disease and stroke.
But what exactly is cholesterol and why should you worry about your cholesterol levels?
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What is cholesterol and why is it important?
Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is naturally made by the liver.
Cholesterol is also present in foods, including eggs, shellfish, red meat and full-fat dairy products.
Still, eating more dietary cholesterol generallydoes not affectyour blood cholesterol.
Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream by binding to proteins called lipoproteins.
As the plaque builds up, blood flow becomes restricted, making the heart work harder.
This buildup can lead to heart problems, like stroke or a heart attack.
Talk to your doctor about testing your cholesterol levels.
To improve your cholesterol levels, here are our top five habits to break.
In short, reducing your added sugar intake may help to improve your HDL cholesterol levels.
If you drink soda regularly, consider cutting back on the amount you drink.
As a result, the starchy part of the grain remains.
Refined grains include white flour, white pasta and noodles, potato chips, cakes, cookies and more.
Dietary fiber helps stabilize the blood sugar and prevents sudden spikes by slowing down the absorption of sugar.
Whole grainsmay also help improve your cholesterol level.
Try thesehigh-fiber whole-grain recipesto get you started.
Men and women are recommended to consume 38 grams and 25 grams, respectively, of fiber per day.
(Here are5 easy ways to add more fiber to your diet.)
TheAmerican Heart Associationrecommends consuming no more than five to six percent of calories from saturated fats.
This amount is equivalent to 11 to 13 grams of saturated fats on a 2,000-calorie diet.
TheAHAsuggests consuming fatty fish at least twice a week.
Try and reach for otheromega-3 rich foodssuch as walnuts, flaxseeds and chia seeds.
Engaging in regular physical activity promotes weight loss and healthier cholesterol levels by helping reduce yourLDLlevels and improve yourHDLlevels.
If you are inactive, it is never too late to start.
Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
