— Saturated

There are basically two different situations you can be in when it comes to having an elevated cholesterol level. One is where you have gained weight from eating too many calories (especially refined sugar and high fat foods) and not exercising enough. The other situation is where you have a genetic tendency to produce too much cholesterol regardless of how well you eat and exercise. In this case, your liver simply produces too much cholesterol.

If you fall into the first category, the best cholesterol reducing method is quite logical — change your dietary patterns. Keep a food record and take a look at what you're eating and drinking on a regular basis. Start to cut back on saturated animal fat and refined sugars. Increase your exercise and allow your body to get back to its normal weight. Nutritionists are available for appointments at no additional cost at Health Services at Columbia to help students get back on track and break old eating patterns. Call x4-2284 for an appointment if you're at Columbia.

If you have the genetic predisposition to high cholesterol, don't fret. A high cholesterol number is only one risk factor contributing to cardiovascular disease. Of course, you need to still follow the healthy advice given above regarding eating well and exercise. In addition, don't smoke and make genuine efforts to reduce the stress in your life. Incorporating stress management techniques, such as meditation, Tai Chi, yoga, painting, playing an instrument, swimming, sculpting, or... you get the idea, can relieve daily tensions. See Number one cause of stress for more information on stress management and free classes offered at Columbia each semester to help you reduce your stress levels.

In terms of niacin, it is helpful in reducing cholesterol under certain conditions. One such condition is when the high cholesterol is due to a particular hyperlipidemia type. This means your body produces too much cholesterol. You need to be monitored by your health care provider while taking niacin supplements because the amount you may need to take will very likely cause side effects. At high amounts, niacin is no longer acting as a typical "daily vitamin," but instead as a drug. Discuss this thoroughly with your doctor before starting any type of regimen of supplementation.

For more information on healthy hearts and reducing your risks of cardiovascular disease, visit the National Cholesterol Education Program web site.

Alice

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