Many doctors are very quick to prescribe cholesterol lowering medication to patients when they are first diagnosed with high cholesterol. However, many patients are reluctant to take prescription medication. There are some choices available in the form of alternative medication and herbs in order to lower cholesterol.

Niacin is a supplement that can lower LDL (bad cholesterol) and increase HDL (good cholesterol). Several studies have shown that regular niacin usage can lower LDL between 10 and 30%. Niacin is available over the counter and in prescription form; however, most doctors only suggest patients take prescription niacin. One of the side effects of niacin is flushing. While this flushing can be uncomfortable, it often goes away after a few weeks. If flushing persists, eat a meal when taking niacin and the flushing should subside.

Soluble fiber also helps reduce elevated cholesterol levels. This is because soluble fiber attaches to cholesterol, allowing it to move through the excretory system. Soluble fiber can be found in oats, legumes, apples, berries, broccoli, and yams. You can also add soluble fiber to your diet by adding fiber powder to your drinks. New fiber powders dissolve completely in coffee and tea, allowing you to increase your fiber easily.

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Being diagnosed with high cholesterol can be alarming. You may feel that you have no control over your cholesterol levels, but this is not necessarily the case. It is possible to lower your cholesterol significantly by making a few small dietary changes.

The first step you need to take is to limit the amount of saturated fat. Saturated fat is found primarily in animal products and processed foods. It can also be found in some plant products, such as coconut oil and palm oil. Eliminating fatty meats is just one thing you can do to lower your cholesterol; however, the most difficult task is eliminating other sources of saturated fat. This can be a difficult thing to eliminate from your diet because palm and coconut oils are ingredients in many processed foods, like chips, crackers, and cookies. In order to be successful, you will need to read the labels of all the foods you purchase. (more…)