Are You Ignoring This Cholesterol Remedy?
Last week the New York Times published an article about niacin’s ability to reduce “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and increase “good” cholesterol (HDL) at the same time it reduces trigylcerides. Apparently this B vitamin has been ignored as a marketable protector against heart disease, and the author suggests it’s because “drug companies can’t make money on a vitamin.” However, prescription-sized doses are required, plus there’s the problem that niacin causes skin flushing, and may also cause liver damage or high blood sugar.
But there is a harmless road to take towards increased HDLs and an improved cholesterol profile that not only protects you from heart attacks, but has a myriad of positive health benefits — exercise! In fact, if all the benefits of exercise could be put into a pill, there’s no doubt it would be worth millions – no — billions probably!
Sure it takes time and a little effort. But it’s worth it. With as little as 30 minutes of moderate exercise, like brisk walking, 5-7 days a week, you may see your HDLs improve significantly within about 12 weeks. At the same time, you’re burning calories, zapping stress and strengthening and toning your muscles (And that’s just a sampling of the benefits exercise confers.)
If you’re not an exerciser already, sometimes it can seem daunting. But it’s just a matter of putting one foot in front of the other. Start slowly, and build up gradually. Over time, it’s the consistency that counts.
If you’re concerned about any health problems, ask your doctor for an exercise prescription!
