There are many different factors that contribute to the rise in cholesterol in the body. The most obvious of these things can be fattening foods. Trans fat, deep fried, and many desserts are high in bad calories as well as artery clogging materials. As bad cholesterol is accumulated in the arteries, the blood flow to the heart is restricted, causing cardiovascular problems, and even stroke or death.

The major drug treatments involved with lowering bad cholesterol are known as statins. These drugs inhibit certain liver functions to help lower the risk of heart diseases. Some statins have several side effects and come with risk factors, but they can all be discussed with a physician, as they do not necessarily effect all users.

For people just now realizing that those aforementioned things could be fatal, it’s important not to panic. It’s important to seek medical attention and get the right medication for lowering cholesterol. The following options are available in terms of drug treatments.

Lipitor, the best selling drug for lowering cholesterol has been giving patients with high cholesterol a reason for hope. This statin isolates bad artery clogging material and slowly lowers it with time. This is one of the highest prescribed options that a patient can consider.

Lescol, is another option that works similar to other statins and helps patients with their overall heart problems.

Mevacor, Altocor, and Altoprev, are three medications that work in the same capacity as the aforementioned and quire popular amongst drug treatments for cholesterol.

Livalo and Pitava are also two options that can help patients struggling with heart problems.

There are several other statins and drug treatments available, and the aforementioned are just a sampling of the most popular prescribed drugs for cardiovascular problems. It’s important to understand that drugs alone do not completely solve the problem. It’s important to couple medical help with diet and exercise. The three fold plan of drugs, diet, and exercise can really help people overcome high cholesterol, and live longer lives.

Reduce Fatty Foods

Fatty foods are high in cholesterol and are unhealthy in general. Foods that are deep fried or pan fried should be avoided at all costs. If frying is a must, use olive oil instead of vegetable oil.

Eat More Fish

Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are excellent sources of omega fatty acids. Fish oil supplements are just as effective and easy to take for those who do not care for fish.

Eat Less Red Meat

Red meats like steak and hamburger tend to be high in cholesterol. It is okay to enjoy a juicy steak once a month or so, but more than two or three times a week is unhealthy. Try substituting chicken or fish for a red meat main course.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise is an effective method at increasing HDL levels. The higher the HDL, the more likely LDL levels will be at a healthy level. It is recommended a person gets about 45 minutes to an hour of physical activity every day. This can be a walk around the walk, a game of basketball or riding a bike around the neighborhood. The key is keeping a regular routine at least five days a week.

Eat More Raw Fruits and Vegetables

The fiber in the fruits and veggies is a great way to lower cholesterol. Dietary fiber essentially grabs the cholesterol out of the bloodstream and flushes it out of the system. Raw fruits and vegetables are ideal, but frozen varieties can be helpful as well. Whole grains are also great sources of dietary fiber. Skip the white bread or white noodles and opt for whole grain varieties instead.