High cholesterol is a chronic health problem that contributes to coronary artery disease and stroke. Patients with high cholesterol are often prescribed medications to help lower bad cholesterol, or LDL levels. For people with borderline levels medications are not always need. Simple changes in diet and exercise habits may be all that these people need to reduce their cholesterol. For any extra boost patients can try one of these three natural substances.
- Niacin: niacin, is also known as vitamin B3. This vitamin has caught the attention of the medical community and naturopaths for its potent cholesterol fighting qualities. Niacin has been clinically proven to help protect against heart disease by boosting HDL, or good cholesterol, levels. Many patients may find this supplement difficult to tolerate due to its uncomfortable side effect, niacin flush. This sudden sensation of warmth and redness in the skin can be decreased is a baby aspirin is taken 30 minutes before you take your niacin. There are also extended release formulations of this supplement that may decrease the severity of the niacin flush.
- Fish Oil: fish oil supplements contain heart healthy omega 3 fatty acids that are known to lower triglycerides. Add fish to your diet or try a supplement to improve your cholesterol naturally. Click here to learn how much fish oil you should take to help improve your heart health.
- Soy Products: soy is being carefully studied for its potential to improve cholesterol levels. It is gaining popularity as part of a diet known as the portfolio diet which is a diet strategy that uses a combination of soy and other foods to lower lipid levels. Try adding soy to your diet in combination with a low fat diet for reduction in your lipid levels.
The best natural remedy for high cholesterol levels is a healthy diet and routine exercise. For those that need an extra boost, try one of these three supplements to see your cholesterol numbers rapidly improve.