Natural Cholesterol Management - Numbers are In

In a four month period, I naturally lowered my LDL (bad) cholesterol from 161mg/dl to 131mg/dl (about 19% improvement), increased my HDL (good) cholesterol from 55 to 61 (about a 10% improvement). Total cholesterol was reduced from from 228 (it had been as high as 239) to 201. I am not yet at the "under 200" target, but with my relatively high HDLs and declining LDLs, I was now closing in on some desireable cholesterol levels.

I achieved these goals with a less-than-disciplined, natural approach combining plant sterols, viscous soluble fiber and low levels of immediate release niacin from nicotinic acid.

I always have eaten fairly well. Low in terms of red meat and dairy, low in terms of saturated fats, processed foods and dietary cholesterol. Mediterranean cuisine also has long been a personal preference, and I use olive oil (and occassionally canola oil) in all cooking and food prep. I also eat a fair amount of vegetables and whole grains, and lots of fruit.

My internist had suggested that I might need to consider the use of a medication to achieve better cholesterol levels. As an otherwise healthy 49 male, I was not ready to start a lifetime of medication to create healthier cholesterol levels. I began a search for the alternatives, and found that a number of nutrients ---viscous soluble fibers, plant sterols, niacin and Omega-3 fatty acids --- can collectively enable an individual to substantially improve one's blood lipid profiles.

So, I began developing a personal program that incorporates these nutrients in foods and supplements. More importantly, I was looking to enjoy these foods (food and cooking are my pre-occupation and a source of daily joy). With my somewhat less-than-disciplined approach to consuming soluble fiber, plant sterols and niacin, I achieved the results noted above.

Note on full disclosure: While I weigh about the same amount, I did increase the frequency of exercise from 2 to 4 days per week. My workout intensity also increased.

I am now looking to refine my approach to further improve my blood lipid levels. As someone with year's of experience in the natural and gourmet foods, I also decided to create Kardea Nutrition to develop products that comfortably fit into my daily eating habits (and hopefully yours!). I also do not want these foods to lead to an increase in the total level of calories I take in each day.

My first set of products should be available in early February, but early in Janary, you will be able to log onto my website to see what's coming (http://www.kardeanutrition.com/).

Overall, I am sincerely interested in networking with others that are attempting to manage cholesterol levels naturally. Let's share what is working.....and based in part on these exchanges, I will be developing other foods and supplements that strive to meet the combined goals of delicious, natural, calorie-mindful and effective in terms of natural cholesterol management.