Keeping cholesterol levels in the proper range is an important step in the prevention of heart attack or stroke. Cholesterol is transported in the blood on carrier molecules known as lipoproteins. The major categories of lipoproteins are very-low density lipoprotein (VLDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
VLDL and LDL are responsible for transporting fats (primarily triglycerides and cholesterol) from the liver to body cells, while HDL is responsible for returning fats to the liver. Elevations of either VLDL or LDL are associated with an increased risk of developing atherosclerosis, the primary cause of a heart attack or stroke. In contrast, elevations of HDL are associated with a low risk of heart attack.
It is currently recommended that the total blood cholesterol level be less than 200 mg/dl, LDL cholesterol level be less than 120 mg/dl, HDL cholesterol be greater than 35 mg/dl, and triglyceride (another type of blood fat) levels be less than 150 mg/dl.
Lowering Cholesterol through Diet and Lifestyle
The most important approach to lowering high cholesterol is a healthful diet and lifestyle. The dietary guidelines are straight-forward: eat less saturated fat and cholesterol by reducing or eliminating the amounts of animal products in the diet; eliminate or at least minimize partially hydrogenated, hydrogenated and trans-fats in the diet; increase the consumption of fiber-rich plant foods (fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes); and lose weight if necessary. Natural Solution for Weight Loss provides a good start.
Lifestyle factors including getting regular exercise, not smoking, and reducing or eliminating the consumption of coffee (both caffeinated and decaffeinated) will also positively effect your blood lipid levels.
When Diet and Lifestyle Changes Aren’t Enough
In many cases dietary and lifestyle changes alone is not sufficient to get cholesterol levels into the desired ranges. Fortunately, there are several natural compounds that can lower cholesterol levels. In fact, when all factors are considered (cost, safety, effectiveness, etc.) the natural alternatives presented here offer significant advantages to standard drug therapy.
Niacin
Because of its low cost and proven efficacy, my first recommendation is to try niacin. The side effects of niacin (such as skin flushing) can be avoided by using a special form of niacin known as inositol hexanicotinate. Niacin has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol, triglyceride, while simultaneously raising HDL cholesterol levels. Lipotain provides both inositol hexanicotinate and guggul resin in a standardized, sustained-release formula.
Guggul Resin
Guggul resin is a standardized extract of the mukul myrrh tree (Cammiphora mukul) that is native to India. Several clinical studies have confirmed guggul resin has an ability to lower both cholesterol and triglyceride levels. No significant side effects have been reported with purified guggul resin preparations. Lipotain provides both inositol hexanicotinate and guggul resin in a standardized, sustained-release formula.
Policosanol
Policosanol is a natural compound derived from sugarcane that delivers powerful, natural support for healthy blood lipid levels and other important factors to cardiovascular health. Several clinical trials have shown that policosanol can significantly reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol. Once more, policosanol has also been shown to support the health of arterial walls by preventing lipid peroxidation (free radical damage) and help maintain healthy blood pressure levels already within normal range. Cholarest SC is a standardized policosanol supplement that provides therapeutic doses in just 2 pills daily! Learn more about policosanol at www.policosanol.com.
Achieving Healthy Blood Lipid Levels without Drugs
Nature has provided a vast array of compounds we can use to positively impact our cholesterol levels and improve our cardiovascular health. Everyone with cholesterol concerns should start with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Lipotain and Cholarest SC can provide further support along your natural path to optimal health.
To find out more about or how to get Lipotain or Cholarest SC, please contact us.
