There are two types of cholesterol, low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). LDL may be known as bad cholesterol', while HDL may be referred to as good cholesterol'. HDL may help to reduce the amount of LDL in the blood, which may cause buildups in the artery walls. The higher the level of HDL the better, as HDL may help to reduce the risk of heart disease. Managing cholesterol levels may become an important part of life for many people with high cholesterol.

A healthy diet may be an effective way of managing cholesterol in the body. Fatty foods such as butter, most junk food and fatty meat may raise cholesterol. Avoiding these foods as much as possible may be one step in the fight against high cholesterol.

Some foods, such as oats, walnuts, omega rich fish such as salmon and oat bran, may help to lower cholesterol. Diet may be a major contributor to high cholesterol, so making serious changes in diet may help to reduce the risks associated with high cholesterol. Still, a healthy diet may not be the only cure for people at risk of heart disease. Some people may still require the use of medications to lower their cholesterol.

Exercise and staying active may be an important part of lowering bad cholesterol. Going for a walk, swimming or staying active in other ways may help to shed some pounds and lower the risk of heart disease. Also, taking a multi-vitamin to make up for any nutritional gaps in diet may help to lower the risk of certain health problems.

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