You don’t want to let high cholesterol levels ruin your retirement life. They are a contributor factor to heart disease. Here are some ways to help you maintain cholesterol levels and lower your odds of cardiovascular disease and other illnesses.

Increase Your Intake of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids help reduce your cholesterol levels. Incorporate foods like salmon, walnuts and almonds into your diet because they are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. If you’re not able to consume these foods, omega-3 supplements are a good alternative. However, if you take aspirin daily or have been prescribed anticoagulants, let your doctor know before eating those supplements. Omega-3 fatty acids may increase your risk of abnormal bleeding when interacted with other medications so it’s best to seek medical advice first. 

Reduce Your Coffee Intake

While coffee has certain health benefits and is a rich source of antioxidants, it also contains lipids and oils that may increase your cholesterol levels. Using a coffee filter may reduce the amount of oil that gets into your coffee but it doesn’t remove the unhealthy oils. One cup a day won’t do much harm but too much of it can lead to an increase in the amount of bad cholesterol in your body. 

Exercise Regularly

A healthy lifestyle reduces your cholesterol levels and boosts your well-being. It’s also useful in helping you manage stress and anxiety – two factors that give rise to high cholesterol levels. Any form of exercise is beneficial, even a simple walk in the park. However, before you execute your exercise plan, let a doctor assess your fitness level to see if you’re suitable to work out. If you have a health condition or mobility issues that make it difficult for you to exercise alone, consider engaging a professional caretaker to support you so you can exercise safely.  

Reduce Your Weight

Obesity could lead to low levels of high-density lipoproteins known as good cholesterol that prevents the buildup of plaque in your heart arteries. A diet change and exercise plan can help you lose weight. If you need help losing weight, consult your doctor who can recommend a list of food and recipes. You can also consider seeking help from a nutritionist who can develop a diet plan to reduce your cholesterol and weight healthily.

Quit Smoking

Smoking raises your cholesterol levels and puts you at a higher risk of heart disease. If you can’t quit smoking immediately, try reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke. If required, get help from a physician who can recommend effective treatment options such as using nicotine patches.

Let a Professional Caregiver Help You

Maintaining cholesterol levels on your own can be challenging. Your family caregivers may be there to help you but they can get busy with work and can’t be there for you all the time. Consider making the move into a retirement community where trained professionals are available to help you round the clock. They have a wealth of experience managing the health and nutrition needs of different elderly residents and will know what’s best for you.