(Foreword: This is the continuation of our response to MJ Flo 2023 on his quest to lower cholesterol naturally.)

Dear MJ Flo 2023,

Now, moving on to the last stretch…

9. 30 is the number

Go for 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week. This can lower your bad cholesterol and raise your good cholesterol levels. The more you sweat out, the better it is. This lessens your chance of having your arteries clogged. There is also no need for you to exercise 30 minutes straight. You can break it up into three ten-minute sessions.

10. Walk fast

Brisk walking lowers your chance of stroke and heart disease. It also helps you lose weight, keeps bones strong, and is good for mood and stress management. You can start with a 10-minute walk and increase from there.

11. It’s not just the gym

You can be active anywhere from housework to gardening to playing and whatever your heart desires. Just move and you are on the right course.

12. Eat out smart

When you eat out, be sure to choose broiled, baked, steamed, and grilled foods - not fried.

13. Read the label

If the servings are more than one, be cautious. Also avoid saturated fat, sodium, calories, and cholesterol.

14. Stay cool

Stress raises your blood pressure. So, relax by taking some slow, deep breaths. Meditation, praying, socializing with people you enjoy, and exercising are real breathers.

15. Watch your weight

If you have extra pounds, there are more chances of high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, which can all affect the lining of your arteries, and more likely that they collect plaque from cholesterol. And losing your belly fat can raise your good and lower your bad cholesterol.

16. See your doctor regularly

Work with your doctor. This is for you to know how you’re going and your body going strong.

Good luck!

Dr. Fritz

(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. For your questions, you may send them to Dear Dr. Fritz, ℅ Sunstar-Davao Publishing Inc., Ebro-Pelayo Building 1, Juan Luna St., Davao City, or you e-mail them to dokatlaw@gmail.com. If you don’t wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)