Get Your Cholesterol in Check With These Methods
Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is essential for heart health and overall well-being. High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular conditions. Fortunately, there are medical treatments and lifestyle changes that can help keep cholesterol under control. Here are some of the best ways to manage cholesterol levels.
Medical Treatment Options
1. Evkeeza (Evinacumab)
Evkeeza is an FDA-approved medication specifically designed to help lower cholesterol in people with familial hypercholesterolemia (a genetic condition that causes high cholesterol). It works by blocking a protein that prevents the body from removing bad cholesterol (LDL) efficiently. Evkeeza is typically administered as an intravenous (IV) infusion and is recommended for individuals with severely high cholesterol levels who need additional support beyond standard medications.
2. Statins
Statins are one of the most commonly prescribed medications for high cholesterol. They work by reducing the amount of cholesterol the liver produces and increasing the removal of LDL (bad cholesterol) from the bloodstream. Examples include atorvastatin, simvastatin and rosuvastatin.
3. PCSK9 Inhibitors
These injectable medications, such as alirocumab and evolocumab, help lower cholesterol by blocking a protein that prevents the liver from removing LDL cholesterol. PCSK9 inhibitors are often used when statins alone are not enough.
4. Bile Acid Sequestrants
These medications help remove cholesterol by preventing bile acids in the digestive system from being reabsorbed. The liver then uses cholesterol to make more bile acids, reducing overall cholesterol levels.
5. Fibrates
Fibrates, such as fenofibrate and gemfibrozil, primarily lower triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood) but can also help increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels.
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Natural and At-Home Methods
1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
A diet rich in fiber, healthy fats and lean proteins can help control cholesterol levels. Consider incorporating the following:
- Fruits and vegetables. High in fiber and antioxidants that help lower LDL cholesterol.
- Whole grains. Oats, brown rice and quinoa can reduce bad cholesterol levels.
- Healthy fats. Avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil support heart health.
- Fatty fish. Salmon, mackerel and tuna contain omega-3 fatty acids that help lower triglycerides.
Do your best to cut unhealthy foods from your diet.
2. Exercise Regularly
Physical activity helps raise HDL (good cholesterol) while lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming or cycling, most days of the week.
3. Maintain a Healthy Weight
Being overweight can contribute to high cholesterol levels. Losing even a small amount of weight can help improve cholesterol numbers and overall heart health.
4. Quit Smoking
Smoking lowers good cholesterol and increases the risk of heart disease. Quitting smoking improves heart health and helps cholesterol levels return to normal over time.
5. Limit Alcohol Intake
Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation—one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men.
6. Manage Stress
Chronic stress can negatively impact cholesterol levels. Practice stress-reducing activities such as yoga, meditation, deep breathing exercises or spending time in nature.
Final Notes
Managing cholesterol levels requires a combination of medical treatments and lifestyle changes. Medications like Evkeeza, statins and PCSK9 inhibitors can help lower cholesterol, while a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise and quitting smoking contribute to long-term success. By taking proactive steps, you can maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease.