The journey begins. I saw on the blood test results that my cholesterol levels are high. The numbers show 274 when it should be under 200, the LDL at 185 when it should be under 100. Obviously they want to put me on medication. Stubbornly, I do not wish to be placed on medications. I have gone this long without, my desire is to remain that way. So, as I said, the journey to getting that lowered naturally has begun. Follow along with me if you dare- um care to.
After checking the test results and seeing the notation about medication I knew I was going to have to take action(s). The time for ignoring my physical well being was long past. First, was something I actually enjoy doing, research. What did I need to stop doing, and what did I need to incorporate into my adjusted lifestyle.
What are natural ways to lower the numbers? I found this website that offers information on cholesterol first and then methods of reducing the numbers. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-to-lower-cholesterol#_noHeaderPrefixedContent It also shows some factors that may cause high levels. I do have a family history, and I have been much too sedentary lately. I quit smoking over thirty years ago and drinking almost as long ago. The family history I can’t do anything about. I can however get up and as the song goes, ‘move it move it’. I can also work on my diet.
The exercise part is going to take my getting out of the habit of sitting mindlessly scrolling online sites. Sitting here waiting for phone calls that may or may not come from my parents who for those who don’t know I am helping in their care. While their health is relatively good, their age brings about limitations that where they need assistance. I am going to have to come up with a way to set time aside for exercise. There is a park not far from where I live that I can hike with Bella. It isn’t the mountain trails at the state park we love to hike, which is much more interesting and challenging, but it is closer making it the better option currently. I noticed a small trampoline down in my dad’s building. I think I’ll find out which relative that belongs to and see if I may borrow it for a while. I have fitness bands and weights that I purchased a while back. I’ve also heard that dancing is good exercise. Since my level of dancing is more erratic and without style and talent that will have to be done when there are no witnesses present.
I did not see where stress can cause raised levels but I think that finding ways to bring that under better control can only help. I have read that a purring cat helps with that, and I have plenty of those about.
The diet part is going to be the interesting challenge. A Mediterranean Diet is recommended. I have a bookshelf full of diet and recipe books, but not one for this particular diet. There are others though on eating healthy and healing powers of food that I will go through to begin. I also know where I can pay a visit to seek out a book for the Mediterranean Diet that won’t cost a small fortune. The same place I collected most of my library, where one finds good stuff cheap. Another interesting part is seeing my son’s reaction to the changes. He will have to remember though, I went vegetarian for him years ago in his quest to help his dad, he can do this for me. Otherwise he can prepare his own meals.
The above link also gives information on what can and should be incorporated into one’s diet to assist in bringing down numbers naturally. An online search brings up many routes of information to assist as well. The important thing, is actively taking that the steps needed to make the difference. I can sit and dream, wish and hope, but that won’t accomplish anything. As I said often after my husband passed and I faced the challenges of finding my way through becoming a widow, one day, one step, one breath at a time.
Words from The Dirt Road 
What timing…..I am trying to lower mine as well.