3 Steps to Improve Cholesterol Levels

Posted on November 29, 2022

Cholesterol comes in two forms, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein). HDL is considered to be healthy, while LDL can be damaging to the body. Containing a higher proportion of protein, HDL protects the body by carrying bad cholesterol from other parts of your body back to your liver. Your liver then flushes the bad cholesterol out of your system. A Medical Group of New Jersey cardiologist in New Jersey can provide you with guidance and treatment to help you improve your cholesterol levels.An Illustration Titled “Types of Cholesterol” Showing Two Types of Cholesterol Labeled “HDL” and “LDL”

There are many factors that can increase your LDL cholesterol levels, the most common being inactivity, excess body weight, and diet. Three of the most common ways you can improve your HDL cholesterol and lower your LDL cholesterol include:

  • Aerobic exercises: Running, walking, biking, swimming, and weight lifting are proven ways to boost good cholesterol levels. Simple exercises contribute to a reduction in body fat percentage and can decrease bad cholesterol. This reduction in body fat will allow your body to pump blood throughout the body without HDL cholesterol’s potential for plaque build-up.
  • Healthy food intake: Foods that have soluble fiber can reduce bad cholesterol levels. Foods with soluble fiber include oatmeal, kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, apples, and pears. Additionally, by cutting down on saturated animal fats such as dairy and meat, there will be a reduction in LDL cholesterol. Unsaturated fats such as fish, vegetables, grains, and tree nuts contribute to healthy cholesterol levels.
  • Quitting Smoking: Smoking increases the amount of LDL cholesterol in your body and reduces the amount of HDL cholesterol. The bad cholesterol builds up plaque in the arteries which can lead to blockages and a reduction of blood flow.

Many people suffering from high levels of LDL cholesterol may be at risk of:

  • Atherosclerosis or depositing of cholesterol in the walls of arteries
  • Reduced blood flow to the heart and brain due to atherosclerosis
  • Heart disease
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke

Call on The Medical Group of New Jersey for Help Improving Your Cholesterol

Count on our cardiologist in New Jersey for support and treatment plans to improve your cholesterol. Call our office at (973) 579-2100 or request an appointment through our secure online form.