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Dr. Jared Hanson N.D., L.Ac is a doctor of naturopathic medicine and acupuncturist practicing in New York City, specializing in natural approaches to chronic disease.To schedule an appointment with Dr. Hanson at his New York City location, e-mail drjaredhanson@gmail.com or call 917-607-5035.

Natural Treatment for High Cholesterol

By now we all know that high cholesterol is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and we should all know that cardiovascular disease is the number one killer in the U.S. However, it is important to be aware that high cholesterol is not the only risk factor for cardiovascular disease and that cholesterol levels alone do not give a complete picture of your risk of heart attacks, strokes and other cardiovascular events.

Cholesterol has gotten most of the attention because there are pharmaceutical drugs available to lower cholesterol levels, though widespread use of these drugs has not led to the lower levels of mortality you might expect. Other lab values used to evaluate cardiovascular risk, such as homocysteine and fibrinogen, can be measured and, when considered in combination, will give us a more complete assessment of risk. These factors are best addressed through natural approaches, such as diet change and nutritional supplementation.

That being said, what are some natural treatment options for high cholesterol?

Diet and Cholesterol

The most important natural way to lower cholesterol is through dietary adjustment. Simple carbohydrates, such as table sugar and foods made from white flour, should be avoided, as should hydrogenated oils and trans-fatty acids, such as margarines and shortenings. Do not eat fried foods or foods made with powdered eggs or powdered milk. Tobacco products should be abandoned and caffeinated drinks like coffee or tea should be reduced to one cup per day. Alcohol intake should also be limited to one serving a day ideally in the form of red wine or dark beer.

Olive oil should be the main cooking oil for those concerned about high cholesterol. Increase the amount of fish and seafood as well as the onion family of vegetables: garlic especially but also onions, leeks and shallots. Other foods that lower cholesterol are soy products like tofu, flavonoid-rich foods like apples and green tea. One very important aspect of the natural treatment of high cholesterol is an adequate intake of fiber. High fiber foods are fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Nutritional Supplements for High Cholesterol

Red yeast rice is one nutritional supplement that has been used to lower cholesterol naturally. It works in the same way as many cholesterol-lowering drugs and consequently can have similar side effects, though they have not been reported as often. Niacin, tocotrienols and pantethine are all safer options for lowering cholesterol levels naturally. Guggul and garlic are important herbs that can lower cholesterol.

If you are taking statin drugs or red yeast rice to lower cholesterol, it is important to supplement with a nutrient called CoQ10. This is naturally produced by your body but will be reduced by these drugs and this reduction may cause adverse effects.

Lifestyle and Cholesterol

Stress reduction, exercise and adequate sleep and sun exposure are all important aspects in the natural treatment for high cholesterol.