Fiber to reduce cholesterol may be suggested by a doctor who is treating a patient for high blood levels. Some methods of treatment may include a change in diet only, depending on blood level counts. If blood levels are really high, diet may not be sufficient and medication may be needed as well. Along with diet and medication professionals will often ask the patient to begin an exercise program. An exercise program will give added benefits to lowering blood levels. Flax in prevention of high cholesterol is becoming popular and is recommended by doctors since it is rich in omega-3 fats readily found in fish oils. This addition to one’s diet provides additional fiber and helps prevent heart disease.
Important dietary changes for individuals with high cholesterol include cutting down on high-fat foods especially if high in saturated fats. Choose foods that are rich in fiber to reduce cholesterol. Choosing whole-grains, a variety of fruits and vegetables are smart choices as well as flax, in prevention of high cholesterol. Losing weight will help to bring those numbers down. Reducing fats and sugars in the diet will lower triglyceride levels as well.
Dietary changes are often difficult at first, especially when one is in the habit of eating anything desired. Make small changes, one day at a time. Setting new goals and allowing changes to become a habit will help with long-term dietary solutions. Trust in God and thank him for foods that bring healing to the body. “Nevertheless he left not himself without witness, in that he did good, and gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons, filling our hearts with food and gladness” (Acts 14:17).
Health risks associated with high cholesterol include heart disease, cancer, diabetes, gallbladder disease, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, and stroke. Eating fiber to reduce cholesterol will minimize risks in developing health related problems. With some individuals just losing a few pounds will make a big difference. Others may need medication and dietary changes. There have been studies indicating the benefits of using flax in prevention of high cholesterol. Flaxseeds have many healthful benefits including success with treating anti-inflammatory conditions associated with asthma, migraine headaches, and rheumatoid arthritis. Omega-3 fats found in flaxseed help to reduce the formation of blood clots within the body thus reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke benefiting individuals with heart disease or diabetes.
Eating more fish will provide omega-3 fats for the body especially with tuna, salmon, and other cold water fish. Fish is low in fat and is also a good source of protein. When purchasing cooking oil, it is best to choose olive and canola for cooking or to use in salads. Stay away from high-fat meats and dairy products and choose low-fat whenever possible. Foods such as oats and barley, apples and oranges, and dried beans and peas provide fiber to reduce cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood and encompasses all of the body’s cells helping to form cell membranes and hormones. Too much of this waxy substance can slowly build up in the walls of the arteries becoming hard and block blood flow to the heart and brain. Blocking the blood flow to the heart may eventually cause a heart attack and when the blood flow is blocked to the brain a stroke may result. Eating fiber to reduce cholesterol can provide a way for this waxy substance to be reduced. Since the body usually produces all the waxy substance that it needs through the liver it is important not to over consume foods that are high in this waxy substance.
Tobacco smoke can lower the good cholesterol found in the blood and increase risk factors associated with blood clots and contribute to heart disease. Most physicians recommend moderate use or completely stopping the intake of alcoholic beverages and consuming flax in prevention of high cholesterol. When alcohol is consumed in excessive amounts it can contribute to problems with blood pressure, cancer, obesity, stroke, and cause addiction. Seek professional help for alcohol addiction, especially if health concerns are surfacing. God’s word says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Psalm 46:1). There are organizations on the Internet that offer assistance for anyone suffering from addictions of any kind. Many churches provide assistance and Christian counseling may prove beneficial as well.
Some people have a tendency to high cholesterol levels because of inherited factors. For these individuals it may not be a matter of dietary changes but more of being prescribed medication to help lower blood levels. The importance of eating healthy is still recommended for those on medication since poor eating habits can magnify the problem. Consider using flax in prevention of high cholesterol in addition to medications and dietary changes. It is also possible to take a supplement that contains flaxseed or omega-3 fats to provide further health benefits.