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1) Eat Healthy -- This might sound simple, however diets have such a significant impact on lowering cholesterol that they should be the number one factor you look at in determining if your cholesterol is hereditary or a matter of dietary choices. A low fat and low cholesterol diet is the first big step toward lowering cholesterol.
2) Exercise -- Improving cardiovascular health is another step toward reversing the effects of high cholesterol. Exercise itself does not directly lower cholesterol, but will strengthen your heart and circulatory system.
3) Quit smoking -- If you smoke, the plaque build up in the arteries due to high cholesterol is increased. When plaque blocks the flow of blood to the heart, the muscles have to work harder to get oxygen. This can lead to a heart attack. If the arteries get completely blocked with plaque from high cholesterol then a stroke is likely to occur.
4) Relax -- Chronic stress can affect cholesterol levels. If you are constantly stressed and eating a low cholesterol diet, you may not seen any improvement in cholesterol readings until you learn to relieve stress. Try to keep yourself in a stress-free environment.
5) Talk to your doctor -- Not all doctors are quick to prescribe medications. In fact, many motivated doctors will help you form a diet and exercise plan that is suitable for your current health as a first step toward lowering cholesterol. It is always important to ask your doctor if your decision to follow a diet exercise plan is right for you. Remember, do not stop taking medications before consulting with your doctor.