Several cholesterol types exist, some may benefit your health and some may cause severe disease. They are generally categorised as good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is not considered healthy cholesterol. It sticks to arteries, collects in the vessel lining forming plaque, and resulting in blockage of blood flow.
Whereas (HDL), high-density lipoprotein, is considered healthy. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, good cholesterol helps in absorbing cholesterol and carries it back to the liver, which then exists out from the body. It also reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease like stroke. Experts explain HDL is largely determined by genetic factors, diet and lifestyle but its level can also be improved by following the below-mentioned guide.
Add some friendly fats to your diet: a diet rich in healthy fat help to improve the overall functioning of the body and help maintain energy level throughout the day. Some of the good sources of good fats are nuts and seeds, fatty fish, mustard oil, olives, avocados, and other such foods.
Exercise regularly: we all are aware of the benefits one can achieve from regular exercise. it does not only help strengthen body muscles and improve endurance, but it also contributes to the betterment of good cholesterol levels. Aerobic exercises, high-intensity workouts and strength training are the main which can help.
Quit smoking: Experts recommend quitting smoking if an individual needs to increase HDL cholesterol levels as smoking repress the good cholesterol levels in the body.
Add some purple colour to your meal: there is a link between vegetables or fruits of purple colour with good cholesterol. When you add purple-colour fruits and vegetables to your diet, it provides you with antioxidants called anthocyanins that help improve HDL cholesterol levels.
Skip trans fat: consuming junk food is not good for health as it is high in trans fat. Trans fat increases the level of bad cholesterol. It also lowers HDL cholesterol levels, resulting in the risk of cardiovascular disease.