Lower Blood Pressure The Natural Way

I want to send a message to those who suffer with hypertension. In most cases we get to this point by our own carelessness, sometimes when we are young adults, and even because of many things that we abuse over the years which we later pay the consequences for.

Often, people consume in excessive amounts, tobacco, which is highly responsible for high blood pressure; coffee, which can raise blood pressure if drank in large quantities due to its stimulant effects; diets high in sodium, and the abuse of alkaloids and chemical drugs. However, the primary cause of hypertension, and the most common of all is an out of control diet that leads to obesity. In most cases, this problem can be avoided.

We must not forget that high blood pressure is known as the "silent killer". Here are some ways to lower blood pressure naturally:

• Maintain a healthy diet and lose the excess weight

• Drink appropriate amounts of water

• Consume fatty acids

• Take diuretic herbs or supplements

• Perform aerobic exercises

• Consume Cardiotonic herbs

The diet should be based on nutrition rich in fiber, minerals and vitamins, complex carbohydrates, moderate in protein and unsaturated fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated) and low in saturated fats (animal) and simple carbohydrates (flour, sugar, etc.).

Here are the proper amounts:

From 30% to 50% of grains (whole grains, sprouted grains)

20% to 25% of vegetables (green, Starch or no starch), and seaweeds.

10% to 15% of legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas, etc.).

5% to 10% of fruits.

From 0% to 5% of animal products (eggs, dairy, red meat, chicken, etc.)

Drink 5 to 6 bottles of water a day

Consume omega 3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA which are abundant in fish. EPA is very important for the circulatory system, and lowers cholesterol and triglycerides. DHA is helpful for healthy circulation in the brain, and is also found in the retina of the eye.

Other important fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid is found mainly in flax seeds and oleanolic acid which is found in evening primrose oil. The good thing about these omega sources is that they are less contaminated. In conventional medicine, high blood pressure is treated with beta-blockers or diuretic drugs. Therefore, we can take natural diuretic herbs or supplements such as dandelion, horsetail, corn silk, uva ursi, etc.

I also want to mention that there is a homeopathic product highly recommended to lower blood pressure, belladonna, which must be taken in a 30C dilution.

I hope these tips serve those who suffer from hypertension and will help you improve your health.

Original article

Use Natural Remedies to Get Lower Cholesterol Levels and Live Healthy

Many individuals these days are hoping to find solutions on how to get lower cholesterol using natural methods. They want to feel better and this is definitely obvious. Of course, you need to recall some important tips before reaching the same kind of goal.

Medical experts already linked high cholesterol level to strokes, heart failures, blood clotting and other severe ailments. However, we need to understand that if someone experiences high triglycerides and low HDL (good) cholesterol, he or she can also the same undesirable problems leading to heart ailments too. Typically, if you get prescriptions from your doctor, you only focus on managing your high cholesterol and not necessarily about having low cholesterol level. If you want to prevent these serious ailments, it is important to monitor both the levels of your HDL and LDL cholesterol.

Many individuals are likewise increasing their awareness between the difference of natural remedies and prescribed medications in lowering their cholesterol levels. In fact, they are trying to figure out the negative effects of both options. Those who choose prescribed medications, the most usual effects involve depression, muscle pain, damaged liver, cannot sleep at night and more.

On the other hand, natural remedies are safe and effective without harming the body. If you get lower cholesterol using natural methods, you can easily regulate the levels of your cholesterol and begin to feel healthy. In addition, your body will regain its energy and is capable of completing your daily tasks without feeling weary.

It is important that if you are beginner in using natural remedies to lower your cholesterol, make sure to search for nourishments like beta sitosterol, D-limonene and lecithin. These elements are superb options to regulate the exact cholesterol level and help the body reduce triglycerides as well as increasing the levels of HDL cholesterol. This is exactly what you need to stay healthy and fit.

Unfortunately, you may not simply discover these healthful nutrients if you only eat regular food items. You must look for top quality natural supplements containing these elements. If possible, look for the products that feature all these nutritional requirements in combination to achieve great results. One of the most reliable sources to help you discover these nutrients is to visit different websites on the Internet offering the best information relating to this subject matter. Many people now are enjoying the benefits of using the web in searching for means to resolve their worries involving their overall wellness.

Lowering your cholesterol is one of the best ways to reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke. I lowered mine, and you can lower yours too!

Original article

Physical Activity Helps to Lower Blood Pressure

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is perhaps, one of the most common health conditions. This condition is the result of the blood putting too much force or pressure on the walls of arteries. Prolonged hypertension, if left unregulated, could lead to such serious medical conditions such as coronary heart disease, heart attack or even stroke. Also, this condition can be aggravated by complacency and laziness. That's why I think it is imperative that you try to participate in some form of physical activity daily, which can have a direct positive impact on your situation.

Of course, you may be wondering what type of physical activity can actually help to lower your blood pressure. When you exercise, or specifically, when you get cardio workouts, you will be strengthening your heart, the stronger your heart is, the less it has to work at pumping blood throughout the body. Since the main problem of high blood pressure is the heart overworking and putting too much force out, these cardiovascular strengthening exercises can make the heart more efficient so that it does not have to use so much force.

Indeed, to make the most of the physical activity and get the very best workout possible, you need to know what type of activity will be the most efficient. In order to strengthen your heart, you need to take part in activities that will get it working more, such as high intensity cardio workouts. Doctors recommend that you get about thirty minutes of exercise each day or at least for five hours a week. You do not have to get all thirty minutes of activity in one session. By breaking the exercise up into ten-minute sessions you can spread your workout evenly throughout the day.

Additionally, when you continue to take part in any physical activity, you will find that you are more easily able to maintain a healthy weight. Weight problems can also lead to high blood pressure since excess weight puts additional strain on the heart. By getting enough regular physical activity and losing weight, you can attack the hypertension on two different fronts.

Furthermore, some activities that have proven to be extremely efficient, such as weight training, tai chi, yoga, swimming, and bicycling. While these are all exercises that you will need to plan in your weekly schedule, there are also changes that you can make in your daily life, which will allow you to get more physical activity. This can include bypassing the elevator for the stairs or choosing to park farther away in the parking lot. Essentially, any activity that you choose to add in your daily life will actually lend a hand toward lowering your blood pressure.

Chances are that you may have to deal with hypertension at some point in your life. While there is a close relationship between levels of physical activity and lowering your blood pressure it really comes down to living a healthier life. Unchecked hypertension can lead to many health problems, some of which are fatal. Therefore, it is crucial that you take the time to keep your blood pressure within healthy limits and always check with your physician before beginning a new exercise program.

Original article

Easy And Natural Ways To Lower LDL Cholesterol

High levels of LDL are truly alarming, for you are at risk for developing several heart diseases. Learn about natural ways to lower LDL, about how you can do them and how these can help you. Understand also the benefits of these natural ways as compared to other methods of lowering LDL.

Low-density lipoprotein or LDL is a molecule which is a combination of protein and fat. This is the cholesterol that accumulates in the walls of the blood vessels leading to atherosclerosis which predisposes you to developing various heart diseases, such as heart attack. There are several factors that can lead to having high levels of LDLs which include diet, obesity, cigarette smoking, sedentary lifestyle and stress.

One of the easiest natural ways to lower LDL is to make dietary changes, especially if you love eating foods that are high in fats and cholesterol. If your diet consists of refined carbohydrates, it is recommended that you switch to whole-grain carbohydrates. Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables is a great help. Five servings of vegetables are recommended daily such as broccoli, spinach, bell and chili peppers. Garlic and onions are also helpful in lowering LDL including scallions, shallots, leeks and chives. Instead of having sweets for desert, have fruit instead. Drinking fruit juices will just raise your blood sugar level, causing your body to produce insulin, which ultimately causes your triglycerides to increase. So, it's better eat the fruits so that you will have the fiber, too.

Another one of the natural ways to lower LDL is to increase the level of high-density lipoproteins or the HDLs. You can do this by increasing your intake of HDL sources. Have a daily serving of avocados, olive oil, nuts, nut butters and nut oils which are good sources of essential fatty acid. You can also eat fish, one of the best sources of Omega-3 fatty acids and considered good cholesterol. Mackerel, salmon and Nordic sardines are recommended.

Losing weight is also a natural way to lower LDL, which is actually a must for those who are obese and overweight. According to studies, losing weight even if it just a small amount will help a lot in lowering down your LDLs. To lose weight, eat a balanced diet by keeping the tips that were mentioned above.

You must also exercise regularly. You can go to the gym, do Pilates or yoga, or you can simply run or walk every morning before heading out for work. It's a good idea to check with your doctor first about what is safe and healthy for you, just to be sure.

Lifestyle changes are also some of the natural ways to lower LDL. When you have a sedentary lifestyle, such as sitting in front of a computer all day at work with little time for moving, you should find ways to move around. For example, you can actually start taking the stairs instead of the elevator, walking or ride a bike to work if it is closer by. What is important is that you increase your activity level which will definitely lower your LDLs.

If you are constantly stressed, you should find ways to better manage because stress increases LDLs. Ask for help from your friends and family members or do some activities where you can be relieved of the stress. With these natural ways to lower LDL, you don't need to spend too much money and effort.

Darran Butler is a heart health and cholesterol wellness expert with a passion for showing others how to live healthy and passionate lives.  He has helped countless others achieve their health objectives and, specifically, showing them natural ways to lower LDL. For more information on Darran Butler and how he can help you, visit his site for a free report that will show you how to stay super heart healthy with ideal cholesterol at http://improvinghealthsecrets.com/

Original article

The Most Effective Natural Ways to Lower LDL

Many people are at risk of heart disease because of their cholesterol and looking for natural ways to lower LDL numbers. Heart disease is the number one killer among women and men in the United States. According to the 2010 statistic, 780,000 Americans had a coronary attack and 475,000 had recurrent attack. The fact that half of the American adult populations have high LDL cholesterol level, the chance of 1 American every 25 sec having a coronary event or heart attack is high, with one dying from it every minute. Sadly, most people are not aware that they even have heart disease. In one out of every three cases, the first symptom of heart disease is death.

Why It Is Important To Lower LDL Level?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance naturally produced in and used by your body. This substance is not bad unless you have produced too much of the wrong kind. There are two types of cholesterol, the good and the bad. The LDL or low density lipoprotein is the bad one, and the HDL or high density lipoprotein is the good cholesterol. If the body has a high LDL level, artery clogging will begin to occur and this will increase the risk of stroke and heart disease.

In order to prevent coronary event or heart disease, make sure to keep the LDL level normal. The amazing thing is that most people are not aware of is that this is possible and quite easy without taking medications. These days, there are different natural ways to lower LDL to safe level.

What Are the Natural Ways To Lower LDL Effectively?

Proper Diet - A diet that includes lots of fiber is good for the heart. You diet should also limit the saturated and trans fat to prevent artery clogging. Too much salt is also not advisable, so make sure you control your salt intake as well.

Garlic - Eating garlic daily can lower LDL naturally, since study shows that it can help raise HDL level significantly.

Black Tea - Drinking black tea weekly according to scientists can also reduced LDL cholesterol of people.

Oatmeal - Research indicates that oats will definitely lower cholesterol level, as oatmeal is already rich in beta glucan, a soluble fiber. Take note, one and a half cups of oatmeal in the morning can drop LDL by as much as 12% to 24%.

Red Wine - A glass of red wine every dinner can also help lower the LDL, so do not be afraid to drink alcohol as long as you stick to 1 glass.

Exercise - A person should exercise even if they are at their perfect body weight, because exercising is one of the most effective natural ways to lower LDL. Additionally, moderate activity can increase HDL.

Lose Weight - Most people who carry a few extra pounds or are just overweight are susceptible to heart disease or stroke. This is because their extra weight can definitely increase LDL. So, try to lose a few pounds if you are a bit heavy or, better yet, make sure you maintain a normal weight at all time.

Darran Butler is a heart health and cholesterol wellness expert with a passion for showing others how to live healthy and passionate lives.  He has helped countless others achieve their health objectives and, specifically, showing them natural ways to lower LDL. For more information on Darran Butler and how he can help you, visit his site for a free report that will show you how to stay super heart healthy with ideal cholesterol at http://improvinghealthsecrets.com/

Original article

Natural Ways To Lower LDL Cholesterol

LDL cholesterol is often known as 'bad' cholesterol because it has the power to stick to the inside of your blood vessels and clog them up. Many people believe that cholesterol levels can be lowered solely through the use of medications. In fact, many natural ways to lower LDL cholesterol have proven to be very effective and easy.

The Power of Soluble Fiber

Remember the term soluble fiber. This is one of your most important allies in the struggle against LDL cholesterol.

Soluble fiber is found mainly in fruits, vegetables and whole grain products. It has lots of health benefits, including naturally lowering your LDL cholesterol. Fiber prevents the human digestive system from absorbing cholesterol.

Some foods rich in soluble fiber include oatmeal, cereals, whole grain bread, potatoes, beans, soy, apples, oranges, broccoli and artichokes. Consume large amounts of these foods if you are looking for natural ways to lower LDL cholesterol.

Stress and Your Health

Stress is bad. There's no need to explain why this statement is true. Did you know that stress raises your bad cholesterol level? Apart from all other health risks connected to it, stress affects the condition of the circulatory system. Even if you try to reduce your LDL cholesterol level through dieting, you will experience no significant benefit if you are stressed out all the time. Try to relax. Take the time to go for walk in the park or to practice your favorite hobby. An hour of relaxation per day could do miracles in terms of improving your overall health and wellbeing.

Move Your Body

Exercise is more than just the means to control your weight and to look good. Active fitness can improve the functioning of various systems. It is also one of the natural ways to lower LDL cholesterol.

Modest amounts of exercise can stimulate the body to increase the production of good HDL cholesterol. It is responsible for decreasing the level of bad cholesterol and improving the condition of blood vessels. This does not mean you have to become an athlete who spends several hours in the gym on a daily basis. Jogging, bike riding and swimming will be just as effective when it comes to the elimination of bad cholesterol.

Do You Need More Reasons to Stop Smoking?

Cigarettes are harmful in so many ways that a whole separate article will be needed to describe them. They ruin your lungs but they will also affect your LDL cholesterol reading. Smoking is responsible for the faster accumulation of buildup in arteries. Smoking in combination with a poor diet will result in all sorts of serious health risks and dangers. Though the relationship between cigarette smoking and heart health is a strange one, scientists have managed to prove that people who have managed to quit the harmful habit have experienced a decrease in LDL cholesterol levels.

Natural ways to lower LDL cholesterol are more effective as using medication, and without side effects, too. A healthier lifestyle can affect your body in many positive ways. A better diet in combination with exercise and a stress-free environment can do miracles in terms of circulatory health. Now you know natural ways to lower LDL.

Darran Butler is a heart health and cholesterol wellness expert with a passion for showing others how to live healthy and passionate lives.  He has helped countless others achieve their health objectives and, specifically, showing them natural ways to lower LDL.  For more information on Darran Butler and how he can help you, visit his site for a free report that will show you how to stay super heart healthy with ideal cholesterol at http://improvinghealthsecrets.com/

Original article

Natural Ways to Lower Blood Cholesterol Level

Many people are actually confused about the good effects and ill effects that high levels of cholesterol can cause to our body. In fact, there are two types of cholesterol, the good cholesterol or the HDL and the bad one, the LDL cholesterol. Cholesterol is actually needed for stimulating production of estrogen and testosterone. Also, presence of bad cholesterol cannot singularly harm your life, but its combination with bad lifestyle practices, lack of physical exercise regimen and excessive body weight can prove to be lethal, if not controlled effectively.

However, demonization of cholesterol in the medical circles has resulted in a spurt in production of drugs that are peddled as great cholesterol reducers. With different companies rushing into the scene, the scene is very hot with manufacturers vying with each other to attract potential customers with attractive advertisements and campaigns. Unfortunately, none of these write ups give conclusive evidence on how their merchandise would work and also about what are the side effects.

It has been observed that the major side effects of cholesterol reducing drugs are damages to kidney and muscles, inexplicable weakness, weakening of the immune system and most frighteningly, some types of cancers. In truth, prescription drugs never act as a life enhancer, but as a destroyer of health in the long term. Regular consumption of such drugs can also cause problems with eye sight and general pain.

Statin drugs are commonly used to fight bad cholesterol, but they need to be consumed with caution. Consuming the drug with grapefruit juice, anti-fungal drugs and antibiotics can invariably deteriorate your physical health, which may, in some cases, lead to death too. The most prominent negative effects of statin drugs are continuous headaches, pain in joints and stomach, numbness or tingling in limbs, nausea, depression, breathlessness, weight fluctuations, diabetes, skin problems, unwarranted blood pressure variations, loose bowels or constipation, bleeding from the ears etc.

This effectively points to the fact that drugs are not the one stop solution for bad cholesterol as one may think. This also means that one has to adopt a healthy lifestyle regimen involving consumption of natural foods and exercises to keep cholesterol levels at acceptable rates effectively, without any side effects. Many common foods out there are great cholesterol suppressants. These include olive oil, popcorn, fatty fishes, oats, dark chocolate, beans, apples, almonds and artichokes. It is no wonder that newer generations of cholesterol management drugs are claiming to contain extracts of these in enough quantities. But still, it is better to consult an expert in the field before you take a dive towards changing your dietary habits.

If you need help passing your USMLE, PLAB and other board exams you must have a large set of Cardiology MCQs. Visit Cardiology Questions for latest Cardiology questions with answers.

Original article

How to Lower Cholesterol

We are obsessed with cholesterol nowadays and with a good reason. It plays a major role in developing conditions that lead to cardiovascular diseases, from heart attack to stroke. Nobody needs to be reminded how deadly these illnesses have become in a modern world, with governments intent on preventing a lifestyle that takes us down that path. Health care systems record ever increasing numbers of fatalities and hospital stays related to disorders that stem from inadequate blood circulation. And since cholesterol is at the center of the processes that accumulate into heart attack or stroke, medical professionals and patients have turned to solutions that promise to tackle it head on.

Niacin might not be a magical cure that saves our civilization, but it is tiny little vitamin that is worth looking at for people who are interested in more natural ways of meting out a blow to their cholesterol levels. Also known as vitamin B3, it has been effective not only in reducing the amount of bad cholesterol but also raising the level of the so-called good cholesterol, or HDL. Its effect on helping clear out plaque from the arteries is exactly what is needed to give patients an effective treatment. It is by clogging these blood transporting channels that cholesterol contributes to the breakdown of the system and its undesirable consequences. Niacin has been shown to have a role in slowing down or stopping these processes.

Some people suggested that taking niacin together with statin, another substance that has cholesterol-lowering quality, might produce an even better result. A study that was designed to test this hypothesis in scientific conditions proved the proponents of this treatment wrong. Apart from increasing the complexity and costs of the therapy, subjects who took both substances were at a greater danger, albeit marginally, of suffering from a stroke than those who only consumed niacin. The conclusion was that treatments need to be simplified.

Conventional doctors have warmed up to vitamin B3 as a way to target high cholesterol, but some reservation remained. First, if taken in large doses and for an extended period of time, it can be toxic to a human body. It requires care and caution from patients, even though it is a diet supplement and sold without a prescription anywhere. Second, it has produced mild side effects even when taken in moderation, resulting in symptoms such as hot flushes, nausea and queasiness. Unfortunately, quite a lot of patients have complained about this sort of reactions. There is also something possibly much more important, which has to do with a patient psychology more than treatment effectiveness or safety. Niacin might be seen as a replacement for changes in lifestyle that are necessary to avert unwanted consequences of cardiovascular problems. Taking a pill looks like a much less complex activity in comparison to eating better food, doing regular exercise or quitting smoking and other destructive habits. Its availability as a diet supplement also creates an urge to circumvent medical advice, which is never a good idea.

I am a web designer, a passionate writer and a healthy lifestyle enthusiast. I write articles about diet supplements like probiotics or niacin and about healthy food.

Original article

The Natural Way to Lower Your Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a thick, waxy, fat-like substance found in the body.

Having high cholesterol means you have an excess of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) or bad cholesterol in your blood. LDL is mostly fat with only a small amount of protein. On the other hand, High-density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol is the "good" cholesterol that has more protein than fat and carries the "bad" cholesterol away from your arteries wall.

Too much cholesterol in the blood can build up in your arteries and block the flow of blood to your heart or brain causing a heart attack or stroke. To understand what happens, think about a clogged pipe under the kitchen sink. Like the buildup of grease and grime in the pipe, the build up of cholesterol narrows your arteries, making it harder for the blood to flow through them, reducing the amount of blood that gets to your body tissues, including your heart and brain.

High cholesterol is a silent killer, meaning you have no symptoms, until it's too late. People with high cholesterol have a very high risk of developing heart disease, which is the # 1 killer in the world. In the US alone, someone has a heart attack about every 34 seconds. 80% of people who have a heart attack have high cholesterol.

What causes high cholesterol?

. Diet - Eating too much junk food and fast food, saturated fat and trans fat, many packaged and processed foods, snacks like cookies, crackers, chips and animal foods like whole milk, egg yolks, butter and cheese. All can raise your cholesterol.

. Weight - Being overweight lowers the "good" cholesterol".

. Activity level - Being sedentary may raise "bad" LDL cholesterol and lower "good " HDL cholesterol.

. Age - Cholesterol starts to rise after age 20.

. Family History - If it runs in the family, you're more likely to get it.

Your cholesterol total number should be:
. Best - under 200.
. Borderline-high is 200 to 239.
. High - 240 or higher.

Only about 25% of cholesterol comes from the food you eat and the other 75% is made by the body, which is linked to factors such as age and family history. For 2 out of 3 people, diet and exercise alone are not enough.

Want a natural way to lower your cholesterol? Try Pro-Argi 9 plus.

It's all natural, no side effects. It has many, many health benefits: Below is a list of at least 18 health benefits provided by this wonderful product:

The nitric oxide derived from arginine is beneficial to every health condition imaginable, from the cardiovascular system to the immune system, and hormone function to nerve function.

1. It helps with cholesterol control by lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.

2. Nitric oxide keeps your arteries relaxed, flexible, preventing hypertension and angina.

3. Arginine's antioxidant properties may help protect against heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes and
premature aging because it is one thousand times more powerful than any antioxodant in the body.

4. It may slow or stop the division and spread of cancel cells.

5. It has anticoagulants abilities that reduce clotting and lowers the risk of heart attack and stroke.

6. It reduces Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH), a risk factor for both mother and unborn child.

7. It's a natural Viagra. It improves the male's sexua performance by treating Vascular Erectile Dysfunction (ED).

8. It strengthens long-term memory, and may assist in reversing the effects of dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

9. It bolsters human growth hormone (HGH) production, which is known to have anti-aging properties and can help with developing lean muscle mass, preserving bone density, aiding in weight loss and strength training, boosting athletic performance and enhancing stamina.

10. It may help improve your immune system and aids in the fight of bacterial infections.

11. It relaxes hypertonic sphincter muscles, controlling the bleeding, preventing and healing hemorrhoids.

12. It may improve kidney function and slow the progression of renal disease and age-related chronic kidney failure. Arginine`s protective effect on the kidneys may also benefit those with diabetes.

13. It can help offset cardiovascular and lung damage caused by tobacco use. Nitric oxide levels in smokers are less than half of those found in non-smokers.

14. It is useful in the treatment of asthma by opening pulmonary airways for easier breathing and the treatment of lung disorders.

15. It may assist in the treatment and prevention of diabetes because many of the disease's complications, including but not limited to poor circulation and blindness, are vascular. Arginine is also found to control insulin secretion in the pancreas.

16. It may prevent and possible reverse the effects of osteoporosis (weak bones) by positively affecting bone mass.

17. It has been used in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome and reduces the occurrence of ulcers - without affecting gastric acid production.

18. ProArgi9 Plus accelerates wound healing and post-surgery recovery. It is also useful in treating burn wounds and stimulates wound healing in the elderly.

Original article

Prescription Drugs Versus Natural Diets To Lower Cholesterol Levels

These myths can be listed thus:-
Cholesterol is not as bad as many have made it out to be. It is needed by the body to produce hormones such as testesterone and estrogen.
Bad cholesterol in the system does not necessarily lead to heart disease. Other mental and physical factors such as stress, exercise or body weight can be the cause of elevated bad cholesterol in the blood.
High cholesterol is not responsible for arteriosclerosis, the condition when plaque (comprising hardened cholesterol) begins to form and attach itself to the walls of blood vessels.
No particular diet can reduce bad cholesterol as the body produces much more bad cholesterol than any food can deal with.
Heavy consumption of animal fat as a result of meat consumption will not cause arteriosclerosis, so that consuming animal fat will not bring about heart disease.
Cholesterol management drugs do not lead to the increased mortality of persons consuming them and
Cholesterol management drugs do have certain side effects which can be effectively managed with other drugs and one has to find the drugs that are best suited by trial and error.

The cholesterol management drug market is a US$16 Billion market. It is therefore not surprising that some money will be spent promoting these drugs in the best light. There is also a huge market for those drugs that will treat with the side effects. The main side effects that have been documented include cancer risk, general weakness, immune system suppression, and muscle and kidney damage.

It is worth taking a little time to list the range of side effects that statin drugs have on the human body as reported. The first major side effect is the effect that the drug has on the liver. After a while the liver does not function as it should. This does happen in a small fraction of users and the physician has to take specific blood tests on a regular basis to monitor this problem. The next major side effect is called myopathy which is a condition where the muscle tissue is affected. Great pain is experienced and if the drugs are continued there is a condition called rhabdomyolysis which develops that can result in death.

Taking statin drugs with other drugs can also be very dangerous. A combination of statins with antibiotics or anti-fungals have been known to present many problems for the body. Taking grapefruit juice together statins is a definite no-no. This combination actually increases cholesterol levels in the bloodstream.

Statin drugs have also been reported to affect one's ability to concentrate, to remember and to think. They have also been known to induce depression. Statins have been reported to cause recurring headaches, joint pain, abdominal pain, numbness and tingling in one's hands and feet.

Other side effects reported include sleep problems, dizziness, a sense of detachment, swelling, shortness of breath, changes in vision, weight change, hunger, breast enlargement, blood sugar changes, dry skin, rashes, blood pressure changes, nausea, upset stomach, bleeding and ring in the ears.

The other aspect of these drugs are that they are quite expensive and not affordable to the common man. Companies claim that they have to reclaim their research and development outlay and that is why prices are so high.

Natural Super-Foods With No Side Effects.

There are a number of natural super-foods that if consumed regularly will lead to lower cholesterol level with absolutely no side effects. These foods in alphabetical order include almonds, apples, artichokes, avocadoes, beans, carrots, chocolates, oats, olive oil, onions, popcorn and fatty fish. There are a number of natural supplements that have been found to be very effective so much so that the drug manufacturers are using them in their next generation of cholesterol management drugs.

As always you must check with your physician before changing your diet program.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. For more great information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article

How To Lower Your Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is produced in the liver. The liver produces 75% of one's cholesterol needs. The other 25% comes from the foods that we consume. The cholesterol consumed are of two types - bad cholesterol or LDL (low density lipoproteins) and good cholesterol or HDL (high density lipoproteins). How we lower cholesterol depends on our consumption of good cholesterol and our avoidance of bad cholesterol.

Cholesterol is necessary for the proper functioning of the body. It is needed for the production of hormones, Vitamin D and the bile acids that help digest fat. The body however only needs a certain amount and certain type for these purposes. With most modern day foods, these are normally packed with high levels of bad cholesterol and consumption usually leads to heart disease. Your cholesterol strategy should consist of lowering your LDL (bad cholesterol) and raising your HDL (good cholesterol).

Lowering your LDLs can be achieved by limiting or eliminating those foods that are high in saturated fats and trans-fats. Raising your HDLs can be achieved by eating many portions of fruits and vegetables every day as well as using olive oil and canola oil instead of butter and margarine. The American Heart Association recommends that you consume less than 300 milligrams of cholesterol daily and if you have heart disease you consume less than 200 milligrams.

Cholesterol lowering drugs may be necessary to lower one's cholesterol. A doctor will normally prescribe the appropriate medication depending on the number of risk factors one has for heart disease. Persons who have multiple conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension have no alternative but to take the medication to control their bad cholesterol level. There has however been some reports within recent years of side effects from these drugs that are quite unacceptable - immune system suppression, kidney failure, general weakness and susceptibility to cancer.

A lower cholesterol strategy usually involves a total lifestyle change - a changed diet, an elimination of the smoking habit, a reduction in the consumption of alcohol, and a regular exercise program. A simple blood test can determine one's cholesterol profile. Thereafter an appropriate diet and lifestyle regimen could be adopted.

While in the short term prescription drugs may have to be continued, the real solution to this problem relies on an embrace of a diet largely comprising of what Providence provides for human beings to consume naturally, these are, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, ground provisions and pure water.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. You can get more great free information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article

Only Good Cholesterol Diets Lower Cholesterol

The idea is to stop eating those foods that increase cholesterol and only eat those foods that dismantle, mop up and expel bad cholesterol from the body. Only good cholesterol diets lower cholesterol.

Foods that are rich in saturated fats, trans-fats, sugars, salt and white flour are the foods that increase these cholesterol deposits in the bloodstream. These deposits then attach themselves to the walls of the blood vessels causing dangerous blockages to occur.

Foods that are rich in fiber such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, cereals, ground provision, peas and beans - these foods have the ability to neutralize the effect of bad cholesterol by absorbing or mopping up these fats and trans-fats, build strength in the walls of the blood vessels to protect from further erosion.

Low cholesterol foods also have low calorific value and also aid in any weight loss program. They are rich in vitamins and minerals which are vital for the proper functioning of the body. These foods also reduce the risk of cancer, high blood pressure and because of its anti-arteriosclerotic activity they reduce the risk of heart disease.

There is a great debate going as to whether lean meat is a source of good cholesterol. Some people say that such meats as chicken, turkey, fish, lean red meat, are sources of low cholesterol and they contain much essential minerals, proteins, vitamins and micronutrients that are good for efficient metabolism. The problem with meat today is that it is filled with hormones and in the case of fish, mercury toxins. Meat is not low in calorific value and over time makes one obese. The obesity problem in America is mainly due to the consumption of meat.

Here then is a sample of a diet for low cholesterol which you can use for breakfast lunch and dinner:-

Breakfast - Soy milk, oat bran cereal with fruit and almonds, oat meal bread, olive oil.

Lunch - Soy cold cuts, oat bran bread, bean soup and fruit

Dinner - Stir-fry vegetables, fruit, nuts.

This type of diet will ensure low cholesterol if followed over time. Also of great importance is the consumption of large quantities of pure water and a daily exercise program.

The following are some more general guidelines that will serve one in good stead:-
As a general rule you should eat more foods that increase the level of good cholesterol such as garlic, fruits and vegetables, whole grain foods and fibrous foods,
If you are a fish eater, eat those fatty fishes because of their omega-3 fatty acid content. These are mackerel, salmon, herring and tuna fish.
Your good cholesterol foods must be rich in antioxidants and nutrients - vitamin C, beta carotene (vitamin A), vitamin E and selenium. All fresh fruit, dried fruit and vegetables will supply these.
Consume 2-3 liters of pure water daily. This will flush out toxins and remove bad cholesterol.
Consumption of saturated fats in the form of animal fats should be avoided. These contain lots of bad cholesterol. If this is to be consumed, it should be with fibers and water,
Increase your intake of unsaturated fats such as olive oil, almonds, nuts and unrefined vegetable oils. These prevent cardiovascular diseases and some kinds of cancers,
Decrease or eliminate the use of foods that decrease the level of good cholesterol such as margarines, butter and sunflower oil. Replace with white vinegar, olive oil and canola oil,
If you are to consume alcohol, limit it to two glasses of wine or beer a day. These are particularly rich in antioxidants and help in the production of good cholesterol.

All this advice should confirmed with your health professional before embarking on same.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. For more great information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article

Natural Lower Cholesterol Foods

High cholesterol is in fact the most common cause of chronic disease and is particularly related to cardiovascular diseases.

Before going any further it must be stated cholesterol is not all that bad and some cholesterol is needed in the system for good health. The "low" in low cholesterol really means an absence of bad or ldl cholesterol. Ldl means low-density lipoproteins. This substance has to be absorbed by certain foods or flushed out of the system so hence the reason for low cholesterol foods which can carry out this function.

To achieve success in the battle for lower cholesterol, you not only have to change what you eat, you must also change your lifestyle. Changing what you eat means eliminating foods that are high in saturated fats and trans-fats. Saturated fats and trans-fats are substances full of high cholesterol. Examples of foods full of saturated fats and trans-fats are most meats, most whole milk dairy products, some fish and many types of cooking oils. Changing one's lifestyle involves the elimination of such bad habits as smoking, excessive alcoholic consumption and an overly sedentary life routine.

The sedentary lifestyle can be overcome by adopting a more active daily routine. This will make the cardiovascular system more robust and healthy and includes walking, jogging, biking, swimming, etc. These should be engaged in at least three times per week for a duration of 45 minutes.

Eating cholesterol lowering foods is very simple. Just consume those that are provided by Nature and you would be spot on. These foods are the common fruits and vegetables, whole grains, ground nuts, peas, beans and ground provisions.

Fruits are good sources of fiber, vitamins and carbohydrates. The vitamin C in fruit make the arterial walls of the blood vessels strong. Vegetables are also good sources of fiber, minerals and vitamins and they also have the ability to mop up or absorb and eliminate bad cholesterol from the system. Whole grains also mop up and absorb bad cholesterol as well as provide significant vitamins and minerals for the body.

Ground nuts are a high source of protein, energy, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. Ground nuts can also aid in any weight reduction program. The nuts that are effective in this regard are cashews, almonds, macadamia, walnuts and pecans. Peas and beans also provide protein, fiber and good cholesterol. Ground provision are a great source of fiber and energy.

So to summarize in a practical way what your approach to a lower cholesterol diet should be:-

i) Increase your intake of fibrous foods. The greater the amount of fiber the better as this flushes out toxins and excess bad cholesterol. This means consumption of more whole grain foods, fruits and vegetables.

ii) Decrease considerably your intake of red meat. Avoid beef which is particularly high in bad cholesterol.

iii) Decrease your intake of processed animal fats which include dairy products - butter, cheese and cream. These are also high in saturated fats and trans-fats.

iv) Increase your intake of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as almonds, pistachios, walnuts and fish such as tuna, mackerel, salmon and herring.

v) Finally a more active lifestyle including a daily exercise program as well as the elimination of smoking and excessive alcoholic consumption is necessary.

Finally, a few words on prescription drugs which have assumed great prominence today. These have been known to have very unpleasant side effects and as a result are losing their popularity. Certain natural super-foods can now be consumed which provide equal effectiveness but with no side effects. These should be explored before using medication.

As with any new dietary or exercise advice, you should consult with your doctor before proceeding.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. For more great information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article

Foods To Eat For A Lower Cholesterol Level

The dietary changes required have the objective of lowering the bad cholesterol (LDL) and raising the level of good cholesterol (HDL). Lowering the bad cholesterol means that the bad cholesterol foods with high contents of saturated fats and trans-fats should be avoided or significantly reduced altogether. Examples of such foods are meats, full fat dairy products, some oils, margarines, cookies, crackers and cakes, butter, ice cream, cheese, eggs, etc.

Good cholesterol foods include fatty fish, walnuts, oatmeal, oat bran and all fruits and vegetables. If one is chronic then these foods together with cholesterol lowering medication and an appropriate exercise program should improve the cholesterol level. With this discipline in place the time will come when medication may not be necessary and this will be to the relief from the debilitating side effects that these medications bring about.

The other lifestyle change is to put in place a regular exercise program. Thirty minute of brisk walking five days a week will lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good cholesterol. In addition a more active routine during the course of one's day can help with weight loss. A lower weight usually means a reduction in LDLs and overweight usually means an increase in LDLs. In addition being overweight usually means susceptibility to such diseases like diabetes which further complicates the bad cholesterol condition.

Stress can also lead to one having high cholesterol as studies have shown that chronic stress over a long period does lead to bad eating habits and the overconsumption of fatty foods containing saturated fats and trans-fats.

The other issue that is of major importance today is the impact that modern statin drugs are having on those who consume them. Statin drugs are prescriptions drugs that remove bad cholesterol from the system. These drugs are quite effective but their downside is the harsh side effects that attend upon their usage over the medium and longer terms. They have been known to cause cancer, cause immune system suppression, create fatigue and cause kidney failure. It is normally recommended that the use of any particular medication should not exceed four years.

The true cause of bad cholesterol is the consumption of foods that are not natural to the human body. As long as we continue to eat man-made foods in overall preference to nature-made or natural foods that are not compatible with the human body we will have this problem.

Consultations with your health professional is also always recommended when dealing with health issues.

Nigel Gittens is a writer and researcher on Nutrition. For more great free information on lower cholesterol, visit http://www.lowercholesterolstrategies.com/

Original article