Cholesterol Lowering Herbs
Cholesterol lowering herbs and supplements will not by themselves provide a natural remedy for high cholesterol. High cholesterol levels have often been linked to a diet high in saturated fat - beef, butter, whole fat dairy products and hydrogenated oils used in the processing of food. This is no longer widely accepted as cholesterol from food is poorly absorbed - the body's production can be stimulated by saturated fats, but excess weight, smoking, lack of exercise and a genetic predispostion are also factors. So - general advice - much like any blood/heart problems is:- Increase exercise, eat oily fish and high fibre foods and use olve oil and mono saturated fats instead of other kinds. This will result in a loss of weight as well as reduce the level of 'bad' (LDL) and increase 'good' (HDL) cholesterols. In addition - some cholesterol lowering herbs, vitamins and minerals are also recommended. Firstly - start with Vitamin E, C and garlic - these are safe to take whatever medication you're on - consult your doctor if you're on anticoagulants. Vitamin E will raise HDL, vitamin C boosts the effect of vitamin E and garlic is generally known as good for most circulatory problems. In additioin, Chromium helps reduce LDL and raise HDL if you eat a lot of refined foods. You need oat bran or psyllium to 'flush through' your digestive system - the longer stuff 'sits there' the more you absorb. For psyllium, take 1 tablespoon of powder dissolved in water or juice twice a day. Also drink plenty of fluids - about 6 to 8 glasses a day - as psyllium can have a laxative effect. You need to have your cholesterol measured by your doctor - you should find that a natural remedy for high cholesterol should have an effect in about 3 months. If you have very high levels, cholesterol may appear as yellow nodules beneath the skin in the elbows, knees or around your eyes. Have you noticed these in your parents or grandparents? If you have, then you should maybe take better care of your own levels even if you don't display these signs as high cholesterol is more likely to be affected by genetics.
For an explanation of gardening terms that you might not understand, please check out the Growers Dictionary section. I found that I was either skimping on explanations or giving too much information on the individual pages so I have posted all relevant terms in one section - if there's anything you need to know, please drop me an email.
Cholesterol Lowering Herbs - to Herbal Remedy Index
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