One component of metabolic syndrome is high cholesterol and increased triglycerides. When bad cholesterol creeps up too high, and the good cholesterol dips down too low and triglyceride levels are wreaking havoc, doctors usually prescribe a cholesterol lowering medication, typically the class of drug known as "statins".

But can cholesterol levels be lowered by diet and exercise alone? An interesting article in the August 2008 issue of Men's Health, chronicles one man's quest to lower his LDLs and raise his HDLs by changing what he eats and adding regular exercise to his life.

Michael Perry, author and also subject of the article, lowered his LDL cholesterol by 55 mg/dl, his triglycerides by 23 mg/dl and raised his HDLs from 39 to 45 mg/dl. How exactly did he do it?

Perry increased his intake of soluble fiber, by eating oatmeal, beans and fresh fruits and vegetables. He also reduced his intake of saturated fats and dietary cholesterol. He decreased his portion sizes, substituted nuts and dried fruits for high calorie, high fat snacks, ate more fish and supplemented his diet with fish oil capsules and a margarine made with plant sterols, which are known to block cholesterol absorption. He also ran four times a week.

Perry discussed his decision to forego statins with his doctor before he committed to his diet and exercise plan.

Read Michael Perry's article here...

• Escape from Statins

*Before changing prescribed medications or starting any diet or exercise plan, please check with your health care provider.

By Debra Manzella, R.N. - Your Diabetes Guide at About.com

Photo courtesy of Thomas Northcut/Getty Images

Exercise can not only help you lose weight to reduce your risk of metabolic syndrome, but it is a good defense against the condition, in it's own right. A less sedentary lifestyle has been proven to lessen your risk of metabolic syndrome.

But, what if you haven't exercised in a long, long time. What if you've never attempted an exercise program before?

Paige Waehner, About.com's guide to exercise will guide you through the basics...

• Exercise for Beginners

By Debra Manzella, R.N. - Your Diabetes Guide at About.com

Photo courtesy of George Doyle/Getty Images