The next few articles will discuss some nutritional ways to remain healthy. This is one area everyone can work on to increase the likelihood of a long and high quality life.

Get to know cholesterol - the GOOD and the BAD

Think of “good” and “bad” cholesterol as two buses which transport cholesterol around the body. The bad or LDL is like a one way bus, it carries cholesterol from the liver where it is made and recycled, and deposits it in the arteries where it can cause blockages that lead to heart disease and other problems. The good or HDL cholesterol is like a second one way bus. It picks up the cholesterol from the arteries and brings it back to the liver so the cholesterol does not harm the arteries.

So, the idea is to boost the good and lower the bad cholesterol. The less LDL, the more HDL and the lower the risk of atherosclerosis. The best way to increase HDL is to stay active, and trim away excess pounds.

When it comes to LDL’s, the food choices are key. A heart-healthy eating pattern - that is a diet high in soluble fiber with a moderate amount of fat and cholesterol can make a difference and can reduce LDL levels. To lower LDL’s, try to eat more foods high in soluble fiber.

Some ways to fit fiber in a daily diet is to eat a variety of foods from each of the five food groups. Breakfast is a perfect time to enjoy fiber rich foods such as oatmeal and other whole-grain cereals. Top a bowl of whole grain cereal with fruit or nuts for even more fiber. Choose high fiber snacks, such as popcorn, fresh fruit, raw vegetables, and nuts. These are so healthful and easy to eat.

Change cooking styles to include whole-grains instead of refined flour. Swap up to one-third of the flour with quick oats when baking. Use brown rice instead of white. This can also be done with pasta dishes - use the whole grain pasta!

Eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetable each day.

Next month, learning to avoid trans fats and add healthy fats to a daily diet.