Exercise and eat right. That is the mantra of health care experts when instructing patients and others on the keys to healthy living. Eating right is more than following the latest version of the food pyramid, however. Certain additions and subtractions to the diet can also mean keeping some health problems under control. A good diet can mean avoiding medication (but remember, only a doctor can make that determination. Any medical concerns and new diets should be discussed with a qualified professional).

Chronic health issues are not always caused by poor lifestyle habits. If there is a family history of high cholesterol, for example, someone who eats well and exercises regularly is still at risk for cholesterol problems. A couple of changes to the diet might be enough to help keep that health problem under control.

Cholesterol

Reading labels and learning the difference between good fats and bad fats is one way to help lower high cholesterol. Researchers have found that flax seed and blueberries are two foods that can lower cholesterol levels. Adding a sprinkle of flax seed to breakfast each morning and adding a serving or two of blueberries into the diet may bring down the LDL readings.

Kidneys

The standard belief used to be that too much calcium caused kidney stones, and people who were susceptible should avoid dairy products. That attitude has been modified. Today, a diet including normal amounts of calcium is recommended. For those who suffer from kidney infections, drinking a glass of cranberry juice a day can keep the kidneys healthy, but stay away from grapefruit juice, which increases the risk of infection and stones.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

To cut down the attacks of IBS, one should eat a diet rich in fiber, with foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and drink plenty of water each day.

High Blood Pressure

Sodium is the enemy of good blood pressure, and it is important to maintain a diet low in sodium. Processed foods are high in sodium and should be avoided. On the other hand, good foods to help lower blood pressure are ones high in potassium or calcium, such as bananas, potatoes, tomato juice, broccoli, and spinach.