Do You Have "High" Cholesterol?

Although the body needs cholesterol to function properly, and it occurs naturally in every cell of the body, too much cholesterol in the blood can build up in the coronary arteries and increase the risk of heart disease. Cholesterol itself is not inherently "bad." Rather, it's the amount and result of the excess cholesterol that causes problems.

Please keep in mind that LOW cholesterol, can be just as bad as "high". This is because cholesterol is a hormone and is needed to create many other important hormones - such as testosterone, estrogen, adrenal hormones, etc. This is one major problem with taking medication - they lower cholesterol too much, causing many other negative side-effects (low energy, depression, low libido, etc.)

Well, there are many factors of course, but as with anything and everything in this world, GENETICS and AGING are the primary causes - due to hormonal and enzymatic changes. This is why teenagers can eat junk and still have normal cholesterol, not get fat and have tons of energy.

However, eating a diet high in trans-fats, sugars, processed foods, etc. definitely contributes to this problem. And the lack of exercise is major as well. Again - both diet and exercise can cause changes in your hormones, cause cholesterol changes.

Now, without causing too much frustration - here are some simple rules to live by for a healthy life-style:

• eat a balanced and healthy diet (natural, less processed foods - more below)
• try to get regular exercise, at least 3x a week (resistance and cardio - more below)
• stay hydrated and drink lots of clean water
• take natural supplements and vitamins (it's impossible to get it all from foods - more below)
• get enough rest and sleep, stay emotionally positive. Yes, stress causes an increase in cholesterol problems...

This is a great question and the answer is NO! In fact, cholesterol is not even that important. Other factors:

• HDL/LDL ratios - this is very important.
• Homocysteine levels - this is a 48% better indicator of heart disease, than cholesterol levels.
• Inflammation - one of the top reasons for almost ALL diseases, especially heart disease.
• Blood sugar - keep this low, which means less carbohydrates and sugars.

Some say low carbs or high protein, vegetarian, high fat, etc., etc. Honestly, after 20 years of research I would say the BEST diet is one that's "iso-caloric", which is 1/3 protein, carbs and fats. It's the easiest to follow and least restrictive. The "Zone" Diet fits into this category.

1. Proteins = fish, organic chicken and eggs, grass feed beef/buffalo.
2. Carbohydrates = unlimited vegetables, fresh fruits, beans, quinoa, Ezekiel breads, yams and small amounts of rice.
3. Fats = nuts, avocado, fish oils, organic olives, Judo's Oil

The above is a simple guideline to stick to 80% of the time. Eat 4-6 smaller meals daily, with breakfast being the largest and dinner the smallest. Eat more carbohydrates during the day and more fats at night. Protein with all your meals.

Yes, exercise does make a difference because it can improve your hormones, which will then improve your cholesterol levels, blood sugar, reduce inflammation, etc.

Now, what's the "best form"?... The honest answer is "anything that keeps you interested", right? If you don't like to run, then you won't stick to it. So, just get out and MOVE - indoor or outdoor, just MOVE every day for 15-20 min. At least 1 total hours a week.

But a more specific answer is a combination of resistance exercise (weights, machines, cables, etc.) + cardiovascular (walking, jogging, re-bounder, stairs, etc.). Something simple to follow is 30 minutes of weights, followed by 30 minutes of cardio, 3x weekly.

At the very least, get out and walk - you can do it any time, any place and it's FREE! So, no excuses.

Let's start with the basic multi-vitamin. Then, I would suggest some anti-oxidants thrown in - extra Vitamin C, E, D3, Calcium, Magnesium and Zinc. These are what most people are deficient and will make a big impact.

Now, because your goal is to have improved cholesterol levels, lipid profile and a healthier heart, the following natural ingredients have been scientifically proven to help:

• Sytrinol®
• Co-Q10
• Policosanol (make sure it contains specific "octacosanol" and not the cheaper form of "beta-sistosterol")
• Garlic Extract (make sure it's Deodorized with 1.3% alliin)
• Pantesin® d-Pantethine
• Guggulsterones (make sure it's 10% Pure Extract; E and Z)
• Red Yeast Rice (make sure it's the highest and most effective, 2.5% Extract - with citrinin removed)
• Phytosterols Complex

Don't forget to take the following vitamins to help lower homocysteine levels:

• Folate (as Folic Acid)
• Vitamin B6
• Vitamin B12
• Tocotrienols

There is an all natural herbal product called, CholesLo that contains all of these ingredients more. So, it'll be easier for you and more convenient to take - And it'll save you money as well!

Unfortunately, there is NO "safe" prescription drug. They are all full of side-effects and every year, more and more news comes out with all the problems associated with them... such as:

• memory loss
• muscle pain
• arthritis
• liver disease
• diabetes
• bone loss
• impotence
• depression

... and a lot more. These are clinically PROVEN side-effects - not "some people" get them, but MOST do. Stay away from the drugs unless you've tried everything else first as mentioned on this page.

You should always try natural alternatives first...