High cholesterol is a growing concern for many people, as it increases the risk of heart disease and other health problems. Globally, it is estimated that raised cholesterol caused 2.6 million deaths, according to WHO. While diet plays a big role, exercise is just as important in managing cholesterol levels and keeping the body free from toxins. Regular movement helps boost metabolism, improve circulation, and flush out harmful substances. If you're looking for simple exercises to lower cholesterol naturally and detox your body, here are 8 effective options you can include in your daily routine.
Walking is one of the easiest yet most powerful exercises for lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and raising good cholesterol (HDL). A 30-minute brisk walk daily helps improve heart health, burn fat, and stimulate the lymphatic system, which aids in detoxification. Walk at a moderate to fast pace and maintain good posture to get the best benefits.
Jumping rope is a fun and intense cardio workout that improves circulation, burns calories, and enhances lung function. It also increases sweating, which helps remove toxins from the body. Plus, it strengthens the heart and keeps cholesterol in check. Start with short sessions (5-10 minutes) and gradually increase the duration.
Cycling works wonders for heart health by reducing LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol. It also helps improve digestion and supports kidney function, which plays a key role in detoxifying the body. Try cycling for at least 20-30 minutes a day, whether outdoors or on a stationary bike.
Swimming engages the entire body, improves blood flow, and reduces stress—factors that contribute to healthy cholesterol levels. It also promotes deep breathing, which enhances lung capacity and oxygenates the blood, helping the body eliminate toxins. Even 20 minutes of swimming a few times a week can make a big difference.5 natural ways to enhance eyesight
Certain yoga poses help stimulate digestion, improve liver function, and regulate cholesterol levels. Twisting poses and deep-breathing exercises also support the body's natural detox process by improving blood circulation and lymphatic drainage. Try Cobra Pose, Bridge Pose, and Kapalabhati Pranayama (breathing exercises) for the best results.
Lifting weights or doing bodyweight exercises like squats, lunges, and push-ups can help lower bad cholesterol and increase muscle mass. Stronger muscles improve metabolism, allowing the body to process fats more efficiently and reduce toxin buildup. Aim for strength training at least 3-4 times a week.
Dancing is an excellent cardiovascular exercise that keeps the heart healthy, burns fat, and promotes sweating—one of the body's natural detox methods. It also helps reduce stress, which is linked to high cholesterol. Choose high-energy dance styles like Zumba, aerobics, or freestyle dance for maximum benefits.
Breathing exercises like deep diaphragmatic breathing and stretching exercises like Pilates enhance oxygen flow, improve digestion, and help in the removal of toxins from the body. Controlled breathing also reduces stress, which is important for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. Spend at least 10 minutes in the morning practising deep breathing and light stretches.
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Exercise plays a vital role in managing cholesterol by increasing HDL (good cholesterol) and lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides. Regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling, or swimming, helps improve heart health by promoting better blood circulation and reducing plaque buildup in arteries. Strength training also contributes to overall metabolic health. Exercise aids in weight management, reducing the risk of obesity-related high cholesterol. It enhances insulin sensitivity, lowering the risk of diabetes, which is linked to cholesterol imbalance. For optimal benefits, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of intense exercise weekly.Did Hina Khan ignore signs of cancer(Images: Canva)