Heart Disease

Regular exercise raises the level of  "good" cholesterol — called HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol). HDL helps remove free cholesterol from the bloodstream. Remember, it is the LDL cholesterol that can form plaque in your artery walls.

It is also important to remember that your heart is a muscle. Like any other muscle, it needs to stay active. That is another reason that exercise is such an important part of keeping healthy.

You should ask your doctor what exercise program is right for you. The most commonly stated goal for heart-healthy exercise is 30 minutes of moderate exercise four or five times a week.

Many people find that they are very good about exercising at first, but that after a while they find reasons to stop. You will find that it is easier to stay with your exercise program if you:

• Do a variety of exercise activities instead of just one.
• Do not start too suddenly.

Most of all, enjoy!

Take another step toward your LDL cholesterol goal with an exercise program.

Everybody should get physical exercise, but it is especially important if you are trying to lower your cholesterol. Exercising can make a big difference in reducing your risk of heart disease as well as helping to keep your weight down. Once you start, you will be surprised at how much better you will feel and look.

Be more active in your daily routine.

• Try to walk as often as possible instead of driving or using public transportation. Walking is a great form of exercise and can be done safely by almost everyone.

• Use the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator. Walking up stairs helps work the lower body (hips, thighs, and legs) and builds stamina.

• Vacuuming, lawn mowing, gardening, and other household chores also increase your activity level.