Did you know that the average North American has slightly elevated cholesterol levels, while 1 in 6 Americans is in the dangerously high cholesterol range? Cholesterol is an essential fat, so it is not all bad. There are two types of cholesterol – High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) and Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL). LDL is considered the bad type of cholesterol since it contributes to the buildup of fatty plaque in our arteries which can result in atherosclerosis, heart attack or stroke. However, HDL is considered the good kind of cholesterol since it helps maintain the health of the inner walls of blood vessels and keeps them flexible and clear of hard deposits1.
Lifestyle and diet play a very important role in managing the cholesterol levels in our bodies. If you have high LDL cholesterol levels, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and managing a healthy weight can make a big difference. If you can incorporate the following amazing heart-healthy foods into your diet, you can also naturally lower your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke.
