1. Heart-Healthy Diet: Adopting a heart-healthy diet is a crucial lifestyle change to lower high cholesterol. Focus on consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce saturated and trans fats, commonly found in processed foods and red meat. Include sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, and walnuts, which can help lower cholesterol levels.
2. Regular Physical Activity: Engaging in regular physical activity is beneficial for both weight management and cholesterol levels. Target minimum150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week. Activities like brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming can contribute to improved cardiovascular health and help lower cholesterol.
3. Weight Management: Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a key factor in managing cholesterol levels. Losing excess weight, especially abdominal fat, can positively impact cholesterol levels. A combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise is essential for effective weight management.
4. Quit Smoking and Limit Alcohol Intake: Smoking damages blood vessels and lowers HDL (good) cholesterol while raising LDL (bad) cholesterol. Quitting smoking is a critical step in improving overall cardiovascular health. Additionally, limit alcohol intake, as excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to higher cholesterol levels.

It's important to note that these lifestyle changes work best when implemented together. Consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet or exercise routine, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medications.