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EXERCISES TO REDUCE CHOLESTEROL LEVEL IN 2023
How does exercise help reduce cholesterol?
We have fatty compounds like cholesterol flowing in our blood. When we have too much of them, it can adhere to the inner lining of our arteries, causing them to constrict and raising our risk of cardiovascular disease. A study published in the journal Arteriosclerosis, Thrombosis, and Vascular Biology, found that physically active women had lower the levels of cholesterol levels than women who didn’t get any exercise.
Dr Verma says exercise is one of the best ways to reduce cholesterol levels. However, you must combine regular physical activity with a healthy diet and lifestyle changes.
Exercises to reduce cholesterol levels
Here are some exercises that the expert recommends you do to reduce cholesterol levels:
1. Aerobic exercises
Engaging in aerobic exercises can help reduce cholesterol levels. A study published in the journal Sports Medicine found that aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, cycling, or cardio can be effective in lowering cholesterol levels. Dr Verma recommends that you do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
2. High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
HIIT includes alternating between short bursts of intense exercise with small recovery periods. A study published in the journal BMJ Open Sport and Exercise Medicine found that HIIT can help reduce cholesterol levels. This type of training has been shown to improve cholesterol levels and cardiovascular fitness. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, so it’s essential to consult with a doctor before starting HIIT.
3. Resistance training
Incorporating resistance or strength training exercsie, such as weightlifting or using resistance bands, into your routine can be beneficial for reducing cholesterol levels. Building muscle mass helps increase metabolism and improve overall lipid profiles, explains the expert. The Sports Medicine study found that resistance or strength training can keep your cholesterol levels in check.
4. Yoga
Yoga is a holistic practice that has been proven beneficial for overall health, including cholesterol levels. Several studies have also found that yoga can be beneficial for maintaining LDL and HDL cholesterol levels. Certain yoga poses, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques can help you reduce stress, which is one of the risk factors for high cholesterol levels.
