Let's Simplify It ...

_Many people have come to me and asked, "How did you do it?" So, I thought I'd make a 'quick list' for those who haven't the time to read my whole blog - I understand!

So, here's the simple list. What isn't so simple is implementing the list:

1. Research!
2. Adjust my foods
3. Add supplements
4. Exercise
5. Check out my numbers

So, let's talk about the list from top to bottom. Research is critical - know what you're dealing with BEFORE you head to the doctor's office. I did. When I had my first appointment after I had my blood drawn to determine my numbers, my doctor immediately suggested statin drugs. When I refused, I could back up my refusal with a well-researched plan. He backed down and allowed me a chance to reduce my numbers myself. It worked.

I started with what I was eating. To stabilize my numbers, I removed all meat except the 'good for you' Omega-3 foods. After my second "let's take a look at your numbers visit" I added smart meats - research helped me decide what would be best for me. I began to watch my saturated fat intake and removed all inappropriate fats - again, research helped me decide what would work best for me.

I began to keep a food journal ... I visited Vegetarian Times to learn more and better ways to incorporate the much needed veggies into my diet. I eventually subscribed to their magazine - and I love it!!

I researched supplements and working with my doctor adjusted them to be more efficient. I discovered red yeast rice which my doctor hadn't heard of, but was amazed at my success in lowering my numbers. Some trial and error was required as I had a reaction when I mixed red yeast rice with Fresca or other grapefruit-laced foods. (Note: do not take red yeast rice and any grapefruit products). I added 500 mg of niacin and my doctor added another 500mg. Research indicated taking supplements or statin drugs were more effective if taken at night.

Now, exercise was my challenge. I'd much prefer to research, compute, read, do puzzles and science experiments with my grandson so exercise was a challenge. We own a Wii and have WiiFit and even WiiFit Plus, sports games, etc., but you have to actually turn them on to reap the benefits! One small success I have is with some little exercise CDs ... A Morning Cup of Yoga ... Stretching ... Balance ... TaiChi andmany others. This twelve to fifteen minutes routines fit very nicely into my day. Everybody has 15 minutes!! So, make the time ...you're THAT important!

I have toyed with a gym membership and even found a local one who offers a three-month contract rather than the full year. Still not sure since I'd much rather come home from a stressful day at work and chit-chat with my grandson! I'm working on doing both.

Equally important is staying in touch with your doctor. And, if you don't like him or feel he isn't a good listener or caregiver, for heaven's sake, find another doctor! Check out alternative ways to lower your cholesterol numbers ... community yoga classes, meditation, whatever it takes to de-stress you!! Stress plays a very significant role in high cholesterol numbers.

Our society is so stressed out we have acquired all sorts of maladies ... take time for YOU ... take time to do what you love ... breathe!!!

Stay tuned  ... what does not work for me ...