How to lower cholesterol

To lower cholesterol, particularly LDL and VLDL particles which carry cholesterol and triglycerides, you have several nutritional and pharmacological strategies:

Nutritional Approaches:

1. Reduce Carbohydrate Intake: This leads to a reduction in triglycerides, which indirectly helps lower cholesterol levels. It's essential particularly for those with insulin resistance or high carbohydrate diets 1.
2. Lower Saturated Fat: Reducing intake of saturated fats can help decrease apolipoprotein B (apoB), a marker of LDL particle concentration 1.

Pharmacological Approaches:

1. Statins: These drugs work by inhibiting cholesterol synthesis in the liver, leading to an increase in LDL receptors on liver cells, which helps remove LDL cholesterol from the blood 1.
2. PCSK9 Inhibitors: For severe cases, such as those with familial hypercholesterolemia, PCSK9 inhibitors can significantly lower cholesterol by enhancing the liver's ability to remove LDL from the blood 2.

Lifestyle Modifications:

Adopting a lifestyle that supports cardiovascular health is also crucial. This may include:

• Regular exercise
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Avoiding tobacco smoke
• Managing stress effectively

These combined efforts in diet, medication (where necessary), and lifestyle can effectively help manage and reduce high cholesterol levels. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen.