Controlling Cholesterol for Dummies

You probably know that heart disease is the leading cause of death in America, and that a heart attack is the most common form of heart disease. But did you know that a significant risk factor for a heart attack is high cholesterol? Controlling cholesterol levels is a vital part of healthy living—and it’s easier than you might think to keep your cholesterol within safe boundaries, reduce your risk of heart attack, and improve your odds for a long, healthy life.

If your doctor has told you that you need to get your cholesterol in check, if you are concerned about all the fuss surrounding high cholesterol, or if you’re simply a health-conscious individual, Controlling Cholesterol For Dummies is the book of choice for you. Filled with effective solutions for managing cholesterol levels, from following a low-fat diet to choosing an exercise regimen, this friendly guide is a must-have for:

• Achieving and maintaining healthy cholesterol levels
• Rating your risk of heart disease
• Leading a cholesterol-lowering lifestyle
• Determining how low you should go
• Improving your overall health

You’ll discover how to build a cholesterol-lowering diet, shed pounds the healthy way, make your weight-loss menus marvelous, and keep track of calories without confusion. Controlling Cholesterol For Dummies also reveals:

• The difference between “good” and “bad” cholesterol
• The lowdown on brand-name diets
• How to cut cholesterol through prescription medications, vitamins, and supplements
• The added dangers of smoking and the benefits of alcohol (in moderation, of course!)
• How to find an exercise program you like—and stick to it
• Ways to cut back on saturated fats
• The top foods for lowering cholesterol—and the foods you must avoid

Featuring ten important cholesterol Web sites, ten nutrition Web sites, the truth behind common cholesterol myths, and a handy nutrition chart for several hundred everyday foods, Controlling Cholesterol For Dummies offers reasonable, moderate strategies to help you reach your goal. You won’t turn into an anti-cholesterol fanatic—you’ll simply gain the knowledge you need to lower your cholesterol levels and keep them that way!

Carol Ann Rinzler has written more than 20 books on health, including Weight Loss Kit For Dummies.

Martin W. Graf, MD, has been a doctor of internal medicine for more than 30 years.