How to increase HDL cholesterol – Food, Exercises, Daily routine
How to increase HDL cholesterol – Food, Exercises, Daily routine, HDL cholesterol is the kind of cholesterol you want more of.
It’s called the “good” cholesterol because it helps protect you from getting heart disease.
HDL cholesterol brings cholesterol to your liver, which sends it out of your body. So you want as much HDL as possible.
You can get a blood test to check your cholesterol level. If you’re a man and your HDL level is below 40, or a woman with an HDL level lower than 50, you’re more likely to get heart disease. Having an HDL level of at least 60 may help protect you from getting heart disease.
Of course, other things — eating a healthy diet, like not smoking, being active, and staying at a healthy weight — also matter for your heart’s health. Many of those things also affect your HDL level.
Also Read: LDL and HDL Cholestrol – Which one is bad and which one is Good
Following are 5 Ways to Raise Your HDL Cholesterol:
Some diet and lifestyle changes help boost HDL cholesterol levels:
Physical Activity: Physical activity can boost your HDL level. Get at least 30 minutes a day of moderate activity, most days of the week.
Lose some extra weight: If you’re overweight, losing extra pounds can help raise your HDL levels, as well as cut your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.
Some good fat options: The healthier choices are monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. You’ll find these in plants, nuts, and fish like salmon or tuna. And, like everything you eat, keep your portion sizes small. Fats pack a lot of calories in small amounts.
Use alcohol in moderation: Drinking moderate amounts of alcohol is linked to higher HDL levels. If you don’t drink now, check with your doctor before you start, since alcohol has some risks not related to cholesterol.
Stop smoking. Kicking the cigarette habit can raise your HDL level.