In the last post I gave you the first step towards lowering cholesterol. Here is the second. Remember, by implementing these basic steps, you’re establishing a solid foundation that will support heart health and increase the effectiveness of medications and supplements.

Step 2: Adopt a heart healthy lifestyle.

This means eating a diet that supports heart health and including physical activity as part of your daily routine.

Here are some basic guidelines for a heart healthy diet to lower cholesterol:

• Saturated fat intake should be limited to less than 7% of your total daily calories.
• Daily trans fat intake should be less than 1% of your total calorie intake.
• Cholesterol should be limited to less than 300 mg/day.
• Eat 25-35 grams of dietary fiber. This needs to include an adequate intake of soluble fiber, which will promote lower LDL levels.
• Include sources rich in omega 3 fatty acids to your diet. Some benefits of omega 3 fatty acids include lower triglycerides, increased HDL cholesterol, and slower build-up of arterial plaque.

Eight steps to lower your cholesterol

Eight steps over eight days. The first one arrives right away.

Here are basic guidelines for physical activity to lower cholesterol.

• Include at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week.

This is the latest recommendation of The Health and Human Services Department. In order to see substantial health benefits, include at least 150 minutes, 2 ½ hours, of moderate-intensity activity each week. If time is a factor, you can see the same benefits by bumping up the intensity and being vigorously active 75 minutes (1 hr. 15 min.) each week.

By including regular physical activity you will raise HDL cholesterol and lower triglycerides.

Lower Cholesterol: Step 1
Lower Cholesterol: Step 3

All the best,
Lisa Nelson, RD