A diagnosis of high cholesterol means two things for you: first, it is important to lower your cholesterol levels to healthier ranges, and second, you must simultaneously raise HDL cholesterol. Now you may very well wonder why that is, and the answer is simply that when you have high cholesterol, the HDL cholesterol can reduce the negative effects of LDL cholesterol so you avoid the high cholesterol complications.

If your HDL cholesterol is at a low level, you may have a greater chance of developing heart disease. Low HDL cholesterol levels will cause the LDL cholesterol to stay in the arteries where it can cause a blockage. If you raise HDL cholesterol, this causes LDL cholesterol to move from your arteries and go to your liver where it can be processed.

The first thing the doctor will do when you consult him about your high cholesterol is monitor your diet. A nutritionist can help you decide your diet, so that your LDL levels are lowered and to allow you to raise HDL cholesterol levels. This will include lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet, and reduced amount of fat.

Reducing risk for heart disease requires work. The only way to improve your heart function, lose weight, raise HDL cholesterol and reduce your LDL “bad” cholesterol, is to begin an exercise regimen and keep up a daily routine of eating properly.

It is advisable to make the task of improving cholesterol a family affair. When you get the feel of the healthy diet, it will be quite simple and natural to follow the diet plan. Persuading your family members to join you will actually help in improvement of their health too. Your children should be taught the effects of nutrition on their health and the eating habits that will provide them with nutrition. If we are able to do so successfully, this will help them throughout their life to maintain health and avoid health related difficulties.

There are various sources from which you can get information on how to eat and live healthy. Eating healthy as well as tasty food is what everyone would like, and these recipes can be found in many cookbooks. With the help of these books, you can cook food which will help you lower your LDL levels and raise HDL cholesterol levels.

It is possible to raise HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol through diet and exercise alone but keep in mind that depending on the extent of your cholesterol levels and related issues, medications may be needed. You should discuss this with your doctor for the best results.