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lifestyle · for high cholesterol support

Regular Aerobic Exercise

Reviewed by the Nimbera editorial team · Last updated May 2026

A meta-analysis of 148 RCTs with 8,673 participants found exercise training reduced LDL by 7.22 mg/dL and increased HDL by 2.11 mg/dL on average across diverse populations.Free to low cost

How to use

Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week - brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or jogging. Three to five sessions of 30-50 minutes is ideal. Consistency over months drives the most meaningful lipid changes.

How it works

Aerobic exercise increases the activity of lipoprotein lipase, which clears triglyceride-rich VLDL particles from the blood. It also boosts HDL production and particle size, and reduces the liver's rate of VLDL secretion, improving the overall lipid profile.

Where to buy

No purchase required. A good pair of walking shoes or a gym membership is sufficient.

Typical cost: Free to low cost

Safety notes

Start gradually if sedentary and get medical clearance if you have known cardiovascular disease. Stop and seek care if you experience chest pain, severe shortness of breath, or dizziness during exercise.

Drug & supplement interactions

  • Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about any supplements you take.
  • Interactions can occur with prescription medications, blood thinners, and immunosuppressants.
  • Herbal remedies can affect how the body absorbs or metabolises drugs.
  • Check drugs.com interactions checker before starting.

This information is compiled from primary clinical literature and is for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Read our full disclaimer.