Can blood cholesterol levels be controlled through other methods besides diet?

Yes. One of the most effective ways to keep total blood cholesterol levels down, as well as increasing “good” or HDL cholesterol levels, is to include lots of physical activity in your life. Exercise can help keep your blood cholesterol profile, as well as your muscles and heart, in great shape. Traditionally, the people in the Mediterranean had highly active lifestyles, probably a contributing factor to their ex cellent heart health.
Smoking has also been linked to increased blood cholesterol levels, so quitting the tobacco habit is an obvious way to help control blood cholesterol levels. Also, obesity tends to raise blood cholesterol, so achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is an effective way for many people to keep blood cholesterol levels in check.

Trans-Fatty Acids and Hydrogenation

Trans-fatty acids are made from the hydrogenation of unsaturated fats. Recent research has suggested that trans-fatty acid, which is found in most margarines and many processed baked goods, may be even more hazardous to our heart health than saturated fats! Confused? Isn’t margarine supposed to be better for us than that saturated-fat villain known as butter? Nutritionists today say absolutely not!