Exercise and Cholesterol
Your doctor has probably coached you on the importance of a smart diet to manage your cholesterol. (Add these 10 cholesterol-lowering foods to your diet.) Physical activity is another important piece of the puzzle. One study found that daily exercise, combined with a high-fiber, low-fat diet, can help improve cholesterol levels in just three weeks.
Regular workouts enhance your cholesterol numbers in three ways:
Boost beneficial HDL cholesterol. Swimming, cycling, walking, or other types of aerobic exercise -- the kind that raises your heart rate -- elevates your HDL level. (Here's why HDL cholesterol is so good.)
Trim "bad" LDL cholesterol. Aerobic workouts also help keep harmful LDL cholesterol in check. For extra LDL-lowering benefits, add resistance training to your routine. (Get started with this easy resistance band workout for beginners.)
Knock down triglycerides. Are your triglyceride levels high, too? Moderate-intensity exercise can help bring them down. (Learn why you should keep an eye on your triglycerides.)
Design a personalized fitness plan that meets your needs at the RealAge Workout Center. Just be sure to check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
(Next: Simple ways to be more active . . .)
