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How Do I Improve My Cholesterol Score?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

There are many ways to improve your cholesterol score. Among them are actions such as taking any medicine your doctor prescribes exactly as he directs and adding more fiber to your diet. You may also improve your cholesterol score by making an effort to consume healthier foods, making selections that are lower in fat, and avoiding foods that are high in cholesterol. Additionally, you may improve your cholesterol score by losing weight or maintaining your weight if it is currently within a healthy range. Other healthful choices, such as exercising, quitting smoking, and reducing your alcohol intake, may help as well.

One of the most important steps you can take to improve your cholesterol score is to follow your doctor's instructions when it comes to taking any medication he has prescribed for you. It is critical that you take your medication exactly as your doctor has directed, without skipping doses. If your medication causes side effects that make it difficult for you to continue consuming it or if you are ill and cannot keep the medicine down, it is usually best to contact your doctor for advice.

Man with hands on his hips
Man with hands on his hips

Your diet is also important when you are trying to improve your cholesterol score. Adding more fiber to your diet is one way to lower your cholesterol levels. While you can meet this goal by consuming over-the-counter (OTC) products that you mix with water or juice, you may be better served by choosing food sources of fiber, as they may taste better and provide you with other important nutrients as well. Most health experts recommend eating several servings of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains each day.

You can also benefit from making other healthy choices when it comes to eating. For example, you may do well to make low-fat food selections and avoid eating foods that are high in cholesterol. Avoiding high-calorie foods may help as well, as doing so may help you to lose any excess weight that could contribute to health problems. If you are at your ideal weight, eating lower-calorie foods may instead help you to maintain your weight. Both goals are important for keeping your cholesterol levels low.

Other health and lifestyle choices may also prove important when you are trying to improve your cholesterol score. You may, for example, do well to quit smoking and avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Getting regular exercise may prove helpful as well.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

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