Does Drinking Water Lower Cholesterol?

According to the American Heart Association, 1 in 5 Americans have too high of a cholesterol level. One of the most natural ways you can reduce high cholesterol levels is to drink water. In addition to proper diet and exercise, eliminating other types of beverages and primarily hydrating your body with water, can result in a decrease of dangerous cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of a heart attack or stroke.

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a natural element found in both humans and animals. Specifically, it is a waxy, fat-like substance known as a lipid found inside the blood and cells of the body. Cholesterol is produced naturally by the liver, but the imbalance of too much bad cholesterol comes from eating an overabundance of animal fat.

Significance

Excessive amounts of cholesterol causes the arteries to narrow and harden, blocking the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart. The result of this can lead to a heart attack or stroke. In order to decrease your risk for such ailments, it is essential to lower your cholesterol levels.

Effects

A healthy diet can significantly reduce high levels of cholesterol. In addition to eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, grains and vegetables, drinking 6 to 10 glasses of water per day can help keep the blood clean and keep the body from becoming dehydrated. According to the source, "60 Days to Lower Cholesterol," when the body becomes dehydrated, the blood becomes acidic, which can lead to a build-up in LDL levels of cholesterol. By staying properly hydrated, the body will naturally eliminate excess waste including excess build-up of cholesterol from its system.

Benefits

High levels of sodium combined with excessive cholesterol levels also contribute to heart disease. Drinking ample amounts of water on a daily basis will help flush out excess salt from your body. Additionally, cholesterol problems often come from overeating or eating improper foods. By drinking plenty of water, you won't feel as hungry and will be less likely to overeat.

Considerations

Drink pure water as opposed to beverages high in sugar, sodium or caffeine. Certain studies have suggested that coffee and caffeinated beverages may contribute to slightly higher levels of cholesterol, along with the cream or milk products many people add to their coffee. In addition to helping lower cholesterol, a 2002 study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology showed that drinking a good amount of water will lower the risk of a heart attack.