Home Remedies for Lowering Cholesterol without Side Effects

Cholesterol is normal. Found in everybody. It's a waxy, fat-like substance essential for the body's proper functioning. However, when levels of cholesterol in the body go too high, it can lead to various health problems, heart disease and stroke are major issues.  

Types of Cholesterol

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is often called "bad" cholesterol because it can build up in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.  

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is considered "good" cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the body.  

A blood test can measure cholesterol levels. A high cholesterol reading is generally considered a total cholesterol level of 240 mg/dL or higher, an LDL cholesterol level of 130 mg/dL or higher, or an HDL cholesterol level of less than 40 mg/dL.   

Smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes can also contribute to developing high cholesterol and increasing the risk of heart disease.   

What Is Cholesterol According To Ayurveda?  

In Ayurveda, cholesterol is a type of fat produced in the liver and is essential for the body's metabolic functions. However, excessive intake of foods with cholesterol causes poor digestion and metabolism, accumulating toxins and waste products in the body. Ayurvedic practitioners view high cholesterol as a sign of an imbalance in the body's doshas, particularly the Kapha dosha. Red meat, dairy products, fried food, a diet high in fats and sugars, lack of exercise, stress, and poor digestion, imbalance the doshas. Ayurveda recommends a holistic approach to managing cholesterol, including dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and specific herbs and supplements.  

Home remedies to manage cholesterol levels, Ayurveda recommends a holistic approach, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress reduction techniques, and herbs and supplements. Panchakarma and Ayurvedic massages can also help in promoting overall health and wellness.  

Also read: Swarna Bhasma and Ayurvedic Practices for a Healthy Heart 

Does High Cholesterol Have Any Symptoms?   

High cholesterol itself usually does not cause any symptoms. It is called a 'silent' condition, which can go unnoticed for a long time. However, over time, high cholesterol can cause plaque buildup in the arteries, leading to various health problems, such as:   

1. Chest pain or discomfort (angina)
2. Shortness of breath
3. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) can cause leg pain or cramping.
4. Heart attack
5. Stroke
6. High blood pressure
7. Type 2 diabetes

Lifestyle Tips To Maintain Cholesterol Levels  

Changing the way of living plays an important role in controlling high cholesterol levels. Here are some lifestyle changes that can help:  

1. Eat a heart-healthy diet: A diet low in saturated and trans fats and high in fibre can help lower cholesterol levels. Focus on eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats such as olive oil, nuts, and seeds.
2. Get regular exercise: A sedentary lifestyle without exercise or physical work increases the risk of developing high cholesterol levels in the body. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise most days of the week. Exercise such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or any other activity that increases your heart rate can be performed.
3. Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese contributes to high cholesterol levels. Focus on healthy eating and getting regular exercise. Losing even a small amount of weight can help lower cholesterol levels.
4. Quit smoking: Smoking can contribute to high cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease. If possible, quit smoking to maintain overall health.
5. Limit alcohol consumption: To promote healthy drinking habits, it's advisable to limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels. Women should avoid consuming more than one drink daily, while men should restrict their intake to no more than two.
6. Manage stress: Chronic stress can increase cholesterol levels. Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.

Effective Home Remedies To Manage Cholesterol   

Here are some home remedies to maintain cholesterol levels without side effects:  

1. Garlic  

A commonly used ingredient in cooking has various health benefits. Garlic has cholesterol-lowering properties by reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increasing HDL (good) cholesterol levels. Garlic has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help boost immunity. Garlic is one of the best home remedies to maintain cholesterol levels. It can be consumed raw or cooked. 

2. Apple Cider Vinegar  

This vinegar is made from fermented apples and has several health benefits. Apple cider vinegar helps in weight loss, improves digestion, reduces blood sugar, and lowers cholesterol. It can be consumed diluted in water or added to salads or marinades.  

It is better to have an online ayurvedic consultancy before consuming Apple cider vinegar. Excessive consumption may have negative effects on health.   

3. Green Tea  

It is a popular beverage with numerous health benefits. Green tea is rich in antioxidants called catechins, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties. It helps to protect against chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Studies have found that green tea affects LDL cholesterol. It also helps improve brain function, increase fat burning, and promote weight loss. Excessive consumption of green tea may have a negative impact on liver health in rare cases. Drink only 2-3 cups of green tea per day.   

4. Psyllium husk  

Psyllium husk is a natural remedy for constipation, diarrhoea, and other digestive issues. It is rich in soluble fibre, which absorbs water and forms a gel-like substance that helps regulate bowel movements and promotes regularity. The soluble fibre also helps to lower LDL cholesterol levels. Psyllium husk can be consumed as a supplement, mixed with water or other liquids, or added to food. However, drinking plenty of water when consuming psyllium husk is important to prevent constipation and other digestive issues.   

5. Flaxseeds  

Being a good soluble of both soluble and insoluble fibre, flaxseed helps reduce cholesterol absorption in the gut and lower overall cholesterol levels. Flaxseed also contains omega-3 fatty acids and fibre, which are good for maintaining cholesterol levels. Add flaxseed to your food or drink or take it as a supplement.

Ayurvedic Medicines For Cholesterol  

1. Dabur Lipistat Tablet – It is an Ayurvedic medicine that is marketed as a natural remedy to help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The tablets contain a blend of herbs that works together to support cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease. It also improves blood circulation and reduces inflammation.  

2. Himalaya Abana - It helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The key ingredients in Himalaya Abana, such as Arjuna, Indian Bdellium, and Shilajeet, help reduce cholesterol levels by improving lipid metabolism and reducing cholesterol absorption in the gut. It also supports cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of heart disease, improving blood circulation, and reducing inflammation.  

3. Patanjali Lipidom - Patanjali Lipidom has various health benefits beyond cholesterol management, such as improving energy levels, promoting healthy ageing, and supporting overall health and well-being. It also supports cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of heart disease, improving blood circulation, and reducing inflammation.  

4. Patanjali Hridyamrit Vati - Some of the key ingredients in Hridyamrit vati are Arjuna and Guggulu, known for their cholesterol-lowering properties. These herbs work by improving lipid metabolism, reducing the absorption of cholesterol in the gut, and preventing the oxidation of cholesterol in the blood vessels.      

Conclusion  

It is essential to have regular cholesterol checks to monitor cholesterol levels and identify any potential health problems early on. Home remedies to manage cholesterol levels, an active lifestyle, and a few diet modifications can keep cholesterol levels in check. There is nothing more important than your health. Keep short goals and work towards achieving them. Healthy Bazar has some of the best online ayurvedic doctor consultations and lifestyle tips to manage overall health and various chronic conditions. Please consult with an ayurvedic specialist before making a great change in your lifestyle or before taking any medication. They are the best people to help and guide you to reach the goal of healthy living.