STRESS REDUCING TECHNIQUES THAT KEEP CHOLESTEROL LEVELS FROM RISING

The focus on cholesterol reduction is through medications and diet and most of the general public are aware of the risk factors and the need to reduce high blood pressure, control diabetes, and replace saturated fats with good fats(monounsaturates and polyunsaturates) but little is known that ldl cholesterol can rise through stress.

Cholesterol levels are affected by stress, in a recent study, men's level of ldl (bad cholesterol rose by 5% during periods of high stress.

Women showed no elevation of ldl (bad cholesterol )during stressful periods.

The following are ways to reduce stress:

1) Laughter: find the humor in situations. This increases endorphins ( a hormone that gives a sense of well being) and decreases the stress hormones(cortisol and adrenaline.) Humor lengthens your life, you should be able to laugh at yourself and at humorous situations. If you loose this ability,you're in trouble.

2)Don't be a perfectionist. Perfectionist are never happy. I once read a sign that stated, Perfection is like a moving target the more you aim for it the more it moves. Strive for excellence.

3)Don't dwell, write those nagging thoughts on a piece of paper. You will be surprised at how much can be accomplished by doing this small gesture. Write the things that are in your control, and work on them. The items that are out of your control, let them go. It is surprising how things have a way of working out without our intervention.

4)Be assertive, it is ok to disagree. There is a difference between aggressive and assertive behavior. Give out compliments and accept compliments,make friendships and initiate conversations.

5) Music is a quick stress reliever, anything that takes you away from an offending stressor is good for your well being.

6) Plan your day, if you know traffic is going to be heavy at a certain time of the day, plan to leave at a different time.

7) DOGS The top stress reducer. When facing a particular stressful situation those who had their pets with them had lower heart rates and blood pressure.

We are all individuals and unique in our psyche. Know what elevates your stress level and work on eliminating these stressors. It can be as simple as taking a deep breath.

Every day accentuate the positive and downgrade the negative, you will soon find this to be a habit and a good habit.

Make happiness a choice.

Visit the top of my page and play with the penguins. A sure stress reliever. The fish on this page will also accomplish the mission.

Stay Healthy