High cholesterol levels can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. There are several natural ways to lower cholesterol levels, including:

1. Eating heart-healthy foods: Reducing saturated fats, found primarily in red meat and full-fat dairy products, can lower LDL cholesterol. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, mackerel, herring, walnuts, and flaxseeds, can also help improve cholesterol levels. Increasing soluble fiber, found in oatmeal, kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, apples, and pears, can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into the bloodstream.

2. Losing weight: Losing just 10 pounds can lower LDL cholesterol by up to 8% .

3. Exercising regularly: Moderate physical activity can help raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, the "good" cholesterol. With your doctors approval, aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise five times a week or vigorous aerobic activity for 20 minutes three times a week.

4. Going nuts: Most types of nuts can lower LDL cholesterol because they contain sterols, which keep the body from absorbing cholesterol.

5. Relaxing: Stress can increase cholesterol levels, so finding ways to relax, such as reading a book, meeting a friend for coffee, or practicing yoga, can help keep cholesterol in check.

6. Spicing it up: Spices like garlic, curcumin, ginger, black pepper, coriander, and cinnamon can improve cholesterol levels.

7. Eating soy: Consuming 25 grams of soy protein a day (10 ounces of tofu or 2 1/2 cups of soy milk) can lower LDL by 5% to 6% .

8. Following a dietary portfolio of cholesterol-lowering foods: A largely vegetarian "dietary portfolio of cholesterol-lowering foods" substantially lowers cholesterol levels.

Its important to note that lifestyle changes may not be enough for everyone, and medication may be necessary to lower cholesterol levels. Its best to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.