Cholesterol not only helps the body to build new cells, but it insulates nerves and helps in the production of hormones. Normally, our liver makes all the cholesterol that our body needs. But cholesterol also enters our body through food, such as fatty animal-based foods like milk, eggs, red meat and junk food with high trans fat and saturated fats. High cholesterol levels in the body put the heart at risk, and that is why it is very important to maintain normal cholesterol levels. There are three forms of cholesterol in our body: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or the bad cholesterol, High-density lipoprotein (HDL) or the good cholesterol, and Triglycerides which are the type of cholesterol, which is stored in the body as fats. A person having high cholesterol has high levels of LDL and triglycerides with low levels of HDL. The normal cholesterol levels are: HDL: Higher than 55 mg/dL for females and 45 mg/dL for males LDL: Lower than 130 mg/dL, if you do not have heart disease or diabetes and not more than 100 mg/dL if you have heart disease or diabetes. Triglycerides: Less than 150 mg/dL High LDL cholesterol levels in the blood build up in the walls of your arteries and this cause a process called atherosclerosis.

When you get your blood tested, your doctor will most likely check your low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also referred to as LDL. This is the bad cholesterol that has harmful effects on the body. High cholesterol can be dangerous for a person of any age. It’s safer to combat it through lifestyle changes and stay off from any kind of medication. If the LDL cholesterol levels are already high, then these changes can help the medicine work even better. A healthy diet with all the right foods that include fruits, nuts, vegetables, and proteins can work wonders in your cholesterol levels. Here are few lifestyle changes you can incorporate to prevent cardiovascular disorders: Eat Healthy Foods If you have been eating healthy for several years now, making changes to your diet will have a positive impact on the LDL levels. Go for foods that are rich in fiber and protein. Fiber-rich foods include fruits, vegetables, beans, and oats. Coming to protein-rich foods, you can find plenty of it in nuts, seeds, legumes, and dairy products. Avoid trans fats as they can be very harmful to those with high cholesterol levels. Exercise Not only does it keep you active, exercise will also ensure you remain healthy.