A healthy diet is the strongest protection against cardiovascular disease. A heart-healthy diet is rich in fruits and vegetables and low in saturated fat, cholesterol, meat, and sugar.

Trans-fatty acids found in hydrogenated vegetable oils are particularly harmful. A recent study at the Harvard Medical School found that people who had a high intake of margarine had more than twice the risk of having a heart attack than did people with a low intake. 

A significant increase in the intake of fruit, vegetables, grains and legumes and a drastic reduction in the consumption of saturated fats, cholesterol, meat and sugar are the cornerstones in any cholesterol reduction program. There is extensive evidence that such dietary modifications on their own can bring about impressive reductions in overall cholesterol levels. Very effective cholesterol-lowering programs have been developed by Dr. Julian Whitaker MD, Dr. Dean Ornish MD, and Dr. Hans Diehl. These programs are based on low fat diets, exercise and stress reduction. They not only lower cholesterol but actually reverse blockages in the arteries.

Adam Berry is a Health Coach, Tai Chi instructor and certified Yoga instructor at Inner Ventures mind body center in Summit. www.inner-ventures.com 908.377.1963