There are ways to lower cholesterol without taking prescription medication. Does this mean we should avoid taking cholesterol lowering medication? No. In some instances taking medication while making changes to the diet is totally appropriate.

What you may want to do is let your doctor know you intend to live a healthier lifestyle, and go over what you plan to do. If you think you can't figure this out for yourself ask for a referral to a nutritionist. Your doctor may tell you to try the dietary changes first before taking cholesterol lowering medication.

If you have high cholesterol, you probably have a good idea where you are going wrong. If you are consuming a large quantity of animal products a few changes can help you.

Avoiding red meats alone will help, but this is not the total answer. Many mistakenly think switching to chicken or turkey eliminates all cholesterol from the diet. Not so! There are many products people use daily that are made from animals, and this will also elevate cholesterol levels. Take a close look at the dairy products and baked goods you consume. Changing the habit of eating too many of these foods can make a difference.

High fiber foods are thought to help lower cholesterol. You have no doubt noticed many cereal products now being promoted as being able to lower cholesterol. This may be the answer some want, but it will not be enough.

Whole foods are always a good choice. Broccoli, cauliflower, apples, and any other vegetables or fruits may help lower cholesterol. Any natural food that is high in fiber can be added to your menu and benefit you.

If you are not much of a vegetable or fruit eater, consider adding one serving each day for a week. The following week add a second serving. You may soon see yourself eating in a healthier manner.

Eat high fiber whole grains. There are many bread products available that are high in fiber,and would be a better choice than one that is too processed. This is a simple change.

Don't forget to include healthy fats in your diet. Many find a few nuts daily, and a bit of avocado on their salad to be all they need. Olive oil with vinegar may be a healthier dressing than one that comes in a premixed form.

Beans, nuts and seeds: Most people with elevated cholesterol will benefit from adding beans nuts and seeds to the menu. It doesn't take a lot-just one serving each day may be all you will need.

High fiber products that are mixed into water or juice are being promoted for the cholesterol lowering benefit. This is simply another form of fiber if you feel you don't or can't consume enough food.

Fiber tablets that you chew are available to help you get enough without eating more food. Food should be the first choice when you are trying to lower cholesterol with dietary changes. Fiber tablets are good for the times when you can't eat enough vegetables and fruits.

Fiber pills that are swallowed have been available for some time. These do the same job as the chewable tablets. Again, food should be the first choice, but if there are reasons you won't be able to eat enough fruit and vegetables you may want to try these.

Read labels on everything. Canned soups, breads, deserts-everything can have hidden fats, including cholesterol. When you begin reading what is in your food choices it may be easier for you to make choices.

Humans need cholesterol, and the body produces this for us. Adding more cholesterol is not necessary. If you find you are continuing to eat foods that are not beneficial to you, search out alternatives. Your physician will tell you lifestyle changes are a better choice than medication, and taking cholesterol lowering medicine long term is not the best choice.

Be active. Stop smoking. Avoid too much alcohol.

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