High LDL cholesterol can cause several health problems. Coronary artery disease, heart attacks and even strokes can occur if there is no control over high cholesterol. For many people, prescription medications that lower cholesterol are necessary to prevent these problems from occurring.

There are some things that can be done at home, as well. Some of them are herbs, and some are foods. Oatmeal is one food item that has been approved by the American Heart Association in the fight against high cholesterol. Salmon and other cold water fish may also be helpful, due to the amount of omega-3 fatty acids they contain.

Foods high in soluble fiber can also be useful in lowering cholesterol, and in how much of it sticks to artery walls. These plants include whole grains and many fruits and vegetables. Food products that are high in soluble fiber are allowed by the FDA to indicate that they are heart healthy.

Herbs for high cholesterol which may help include artichoke leaves, red yeast rice and plant sterols and stanols. The thought is that they are similar to cholesterol and may block absorption of it in the intestines.

There is one herb that has been used traditionally to lower cholesterol that studies now indicate doesn't work. Garlic and cholesterol have long been paired, but may not belong together. In a study, people were given several different forms of garlic over a period of time, and their cholesterol did not change. More studies will probably be done to verify that this is true. Garlic does seem to help with high blood pressure, however.

Lowering cholesterol isn't just about the good things you eat, it's also about avoiding the bad things. Most people point their fingers to beef and pork as the bad guys, but this is not an accurate portrait. *Some* cuts of beef and *some* cuts of pork are high in cholesterol. So are some cuts of chicken and turkey. In order to be sure you are actually purchasing something with a healthy cholesterol level, you must read the label.

Cooking methods can also have an affect on cholesterol levels. Frying foods, especially using butter, lard or other animal fat products, can raise cholesterol levels. To be honest, there are three safe methods of cooking most foods. Grilling, baking or using water or a water soluble liquid are safe, while frying (especially deep fat frying) is not. By using water or water soluble liquid, I mean boiling, braising and steaming.

With the help of your doctor, you can make a dramatic affect on your cholesterol level, and you could avoid some very painful procedures at the same time. Before starting any new supplement or herb, check with your doctor or pharmacist to be sure it is right for you. Some herbs can have interactions with medications, and some conditions require care in selecting supplements.



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