If you have high cholesterol, you may find it challenging to know what to eat and what to avoid. There are many medications that you can take to help lower your cholesterol, but if these medications are not enough or you prefer to use something more natural, try eating better and taking supplements.

A University of Eastern Finland study that was recently published in the journal PLOS ONE, shows that eating fatty fish can help lower cholesterol. Participants who increased their fish consumption to three or four fish meals per week had lower cholesterol levels than those who do not eat fatty fish often. Although the fish do contain cholesterol, it’s the good kind and can help replace the bad cholesterol, making you healthier.

The fish used in the study include rainbow trout, salmon, vendace and herring. The fish were not breaded or fried and did not contain any butter, sour cream or other additives that are high in bad cholesterol. Baking and grilling the fish are the best options for preparation and will give the fish a great taste.

Another recent study from the Women’s Health Initiative that was published in the journal Menopause, shows that taking Calcium and vitamin D supplements can help post menopausal women control their cholesterol. Raising the level of Vitamin D in a woman’s body can help prevent cholesterol build up and the study showed that among supplement users, those with higher blood levels of Vitamin D had higher levels of high-density lipoprotein.

Vitamin D and Calcium can be taken together or as individual supplements. Most daily vitamins also include the two.

Cholesterol is still a big problem for many Americans and people all over the world. High cholesterol can cause weight gain and lead to high blood pressure and heart disease. Doctors and scientists are continually looking for new ways to help lower and control cholesterol and new studies take place everyday.

What is your favorite food that is low in cholesterol?

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