Why is it that with all the information available on how you can lower your cholesterol through diet programs, making some lifestyle changes or just using certain prescribed medicines, the amount of people with high cholesterol appears to be on the rise? Maybe because there's no manifestation of the effects until later in life. After all, cholesterol, more specifically bad cholesterol (LDL), is not known as the 'silent killer' for nothing. So the 'out of mind out of body' attitude seems to prevail, which is why its so dangerous. We only wake up when its too late, when the first stroke, or heart attack strikes. To prevent this here are 5 simple things you can do to lower your cholesterol.

1.Educate yourself on the condition. Understanding the situation fully allows you to know what's required to remedy the situation. Don't just leave it to your doctor, be proactive and take it upon yourself to find a solution. After all, its your health, and who knows your body better than you? Once you do a little research you'll be amazed at the wealth of information out there, and the treatment options available to you.Also finding the information is easy. Visit your local health department or hospital, speak to registered dietitians and do consult with your personal physician.

2.Have regular cholesterol checks. Every six months should be adequate. Know where you stand so you don't get any nasty surprises later on in life, and later does not necessarily refer to 50 or 60. Cholesterol related heart attacks have been known to occur to those people in their 40's and even some cases in their late 30's! Also, don't think because you gym everyday, don't smoke or drink that you are safe. If you have a family history of cholesterol or heart problems, you might not be immune. It can be hereditary, as it was with me. My cholesterol levels in my 20's was already dangerously high, and I was and still am pretty health conscious. Regular tests will also let you know how bad it is, and if more serious medication is required. Also, it will allow you to monitor the effects of the treatment program from test to test, and whether to keep going or change the program.

3.Get moving. Make exercise, or any form of physical activity a daily part of your lifestyle. There's no need to join a gym and exercise for 2 hours a day, just take a walk, jog, or play a sport. Any physical activity to get your heart pumping a little faster is all that's required. The effects of exercise on lowering bad cholesterol (LDL), and at the same time increasing levels of good cholesterol (HDL) are pretty conclusive, and makes exercise one of your main weapons in this regard.

4.Watch your weight. There's a proven correlation between being overweight and high cholesterol, so making some changes to your diet would be recommended. Just cut down on the fat intake, especially processed fats and also sodium. Eat more fruits and veggies and increase your consumption of fiber rich foods. Just use common sense and cut down on the junk.

5.Attitude. Decide and make a commitment and stick to it. Set your target and develop the discipline to achieve that target, no matter what obstacles gets thrown in your path. The best way to lower your cholesterol is to have a plan and stick to it. Don't expect miracles, delayed gratification is the key.

If your cholesterol is fine you should still commit yourself to a healthy lifestyle. Remember, prevention is better than cure, and no where is this more true than with cholesterol. If you already have high cholesterol, its never too late to start. Just apply the 5 simple methods to lower your cholesterol and you will be well on your way to a healthier and happier future.

A Modack is a health and fitness enthusiast and the writer of numerous articles and product reviews related to health and fitness.Don't waste your time, effort and money on B.S. "Miracle Programs" that don't deliver results! Learn the honest truth revealed by genuine health and fitness experts available at => http://health-and-fitness-buzz.blogspot.com/