Dietary treatment will probably be recommended, starting immediately. Your doctor may also recommend an exercise program and other lifestyle changes, and in some cases, drug therapy. It is almost universally agreed that the first step in achieving a more healthy cholesterol level is better nutrition. Saturated fats raise the LDL cholesterol level in blood. Lowering the intake of these fats is the most important step you can take to lower your cholesterol level.
Saturated fats are animal fats and other fats that are hard at room temperature.
This includes the fat in dairy products and palm and coconut oils, and a certain percentage of the fat in most vegetable shortenings. Monounsaturated fats , like those in olive and canola oil, and polyunsaturated fats , like those in corn, soybean, peanut, sunflower seed, and safflower oil, are good substitutes for saturated fats. Soft tub margarine has less saturated fat than stick margarine. Most people can lower an elevated blood cholesterol level 10 to 20 per cent by lowering their saturated fat intake and increasing their intake of foods that are high in fibre and complex carbohydrates. Limit intake to six ounces per day of lean meat, poultry, and fish.