Six Steps to Raise Good Cholesterol Levels

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You know all about bad cholesterol and its effects, that it can cause heart attacks or strokes if left unchecked. But what is this good cholesterol you keep hearing about? High-Density Lipoprotein or HDL is the good guy of cholesterol. If you've ever seen a commercial for Scrubbing Bubbles replace soap scum for bad cholesterol (LDL) and you have a pretty good idea of what HDL does inside your veins and arteries. So how can you increase the level of your good cholesterol? We have compiled six tips to help you do just that.

Get Active: To create more HDL, you are going to have to start exercising for at least thirty minutes a day. This does not mean joining a class or becoming a regular at the gym. It is more important to choose an activity that will raise your heartbeat, but that you can do for longer periods of time. Take walks, ride your bike, pick something that you enjoy. That way you can say you're having fun, not exercising. This will also trim down your waistline.

Healthy Eating: Diet is a great, and easy, way for you to change the cholesterol levels. By cutting out fatty foods and replacing them with fruits, vegetables and whole grains you will increase your HDL. There is even a study that is making claims that eating a piece of cherry pie regularly may decrease the risk of heart attack. Like dark green vegetables, it seems that the dark pigmentation of the cherries used help to increase good cholesterol.

Drink Moderately: An alcoholic beverage a day may help to keep the doctor away. The long standing belief that you had to consume red wine is being challenged as scientists attempt to prove any alcohol can have beneficial properties on the heart.

Kick the Habit: If you are a smoker you have one more reason to quit. By abstaining from tobacco you will receive a boost of HDL within your system.

Eliminate Stress: Stress is called the silent killer for good reason. A positive relationship has been shown connecting stress to heart disease in the past. This does not speak directly to cholesterol, but why take chances while the science is being done? Stop to smell the roses more, leave work at work. Do something nice for your partner. This will help you to live a longer, happier life.

Sleep More: Your body needs eight hours of sleep a night. Give yourself a chance to recharge your batteries and you will be healthier and more alert during the day.