LDL cholesterol is the bad cholesterol that is carried in the veins and arteries of the human body. This type of cholesterol can form plaque that can block the flow of blood to the heart and brain and cause heart attacks or strokes.

HDL cholesterol is considered good cholesterol and is believed to carry cholesterol from the arteries to the liver where it can be removed from the body.

If an individual adjusts their daily diet by eating foods that contain omega-3 such as found in most fish and antioxidants that can be found in olive oil which can be used for cooking, these are a couple of things that can help in lowering cholesterol without medication. Eating more fruits and vegetable can also help.

Other foods such as kidney beans, white beans, soy foods and nuts such as walnuts, almonds or pea nuts can help to keep cholesterol low. Due to the fact that nuts are known to contain fats it is a good idea to eat them in moderate amounts.

Scheduling a daily exercise program can help in lowering cholesterol without medication. However, it is a good idea to check with a health care provider before starting an exercise program especially if there are any medical problems that might restrict some of the exercises.

There are kits that can be used at home to find out if a person has a problem with cholesterol, but it is best to talk to a doctor and have any test done to find out for sure.