I had a physical last Friday and my LDL is too high. My doc called in a prescription, but after talking to him, he said I could try altering my diet first, although, depending on how hereditery it is, it may or may not help. So, my question is, have any of you beachers found that your cholesterol levels have improved on the Beach? Thanks so much!

The South Beach Diet was created by Dr. Arthur Agaston, a heart specialist, to help his patients lower their cholesterol, so I'm sure it will help you.

I start South Beach at the recommendation of my doctor due to cholesterol issues, but I haven't been back to see if there has been a change yet.

Good luck!

A natural, whole foods, high fiber (especially soluble fiber) diet can really help balance out cholesterol; I've seen it again and again!

SB diet focuses on lots of natural foods and beans and greens...So, eat plenty of beans and greens and check in with the doc per his/her schedule and let us know how it goes!

Yes! I have familial high cholesterol and have been on a statin for years. So my levels were within normal limits, thanks to medication. But I can tell you that after months on SB my LDL did drop. I think it is very worth trying. Did he mention exercise for raising your HDL?

Yes, and it helps lower triglycerides too!

And I think SB helps drop them, because aren't they most impacted by the sugary stuff?

Thanks guys! Yes, my doc wants me to exercise, too. I've tried SB before, and honestly I have never made it through P1. So, I'm not really sure what to do, but I appreciate all the info.

My cholesterol went from 215 to 185 but it doesn't happen right away. My doctor said to give it at least 6 months of diet changes before retesting. She also suggested fiber supplements like Metamucil to reduce cholesterol. I have a hard time taking that stuff, so I just make sure I eat beans and lots of veggies daily. Studies also suggest that a diet higher in monounsaturated fats (Olive oil, avocado, nuts & nut butters and dark chocolate) can help improve cholesterol levels. I use olive oil to do most of my cooking and eat almond butter daily.

Yes, simple carbohydrates can raise triglycerides so SB and similar diets (along with a healthy lifestyle) can lower them significantly.