The chances of you not having this condition are slim to none ... most Americans do have cholesterol, it’s a natural part of our physical makeup.

Like everything in nature, it only becomes a problem when there is an imbalance.

The 15 questions that most people ask about cholesterol are:

# 1 - What is cholesterol?

# 2 - How does it affect my health?

# 3 - How do I know if I’m at risk?

# 4 - Is there a test that will tell me if I have it?

# 5 - How does it affect my lifestyle?

# 6 - What are my LDL and HDL levels?

# 7 - Will I need medication?

# 8 - Is it affected by diet?

# 9 - What can I eat?

If natural is way you would like to go, here are seven alternatives that are tried and proven by many women around world:

TAKE MORE GOOD BACTERIA: To help with metabolism and utilization of oestrogen during menopause, it is essential to have Lactobacillus and Bifidus (good bacteria) cultures in our intestines. Some believe these "good" bacteria help reduce occurrence of yeast infections. You can find a good dose of these helpful bacteria in various nutritional formulas in supermarket.

PUMP UP ON CERTAIN VITAMINS AND MINERALS: According to registered pharmacist Steven D. Ottariano in his book, Medicinal Herbal Therapy: A Pharmacist's Viewpoint, certain vitamins and minerals can be advantageous for menopausal women. These include:

• Vitamin E (400-8001U daily) - helps reduce night sweats and hot flashes

• Vitamin C (1,000-2,000mg daily) - aids in absorption of vitamin E and decreases capillary fragility

• Calcium citrate (1,500mg daily) - helps circulate lipid concentrations in postmenopausal women

• Magnesium (500-750mg daily) - aids in proper absorption of calcium

WATCH YOUR DIET: Women who are entering menopausal phase have to monitor their fat intake, as due to loss of oestrogen (a woman's natural heart protection) her risk of heart disease will go up. This is why every woman should limit her consumption of meats high in saturated fats such as beef and chicken as these meats might reduce body's ability to metabolize oestrogen.

Also avoid foods high in caffeine and carbonated beverages which contain phosphorous and can elevate bone loss. Limit your intake of excessive sugary foods as these restrict your liver's ability to metabolize oestrogen and impairs immune system.

Healthy foods include Soya which contains phytoestrogens. Grains, wheat, brown rice, almonds, cashews, oats, tofu, and fresh fruits and vegetables are also highly recommended for menopausal women.

GET PLENTY OF EXERCISE: This is probably best way of addressing menopausal symptoms, and every other physical problem known to women. Regular exercise (at least three or four times a week) helps prevent osteoporosis, heart disease and reduce risk of many types of cancer. It improves a woman's overall health and well-being throughout every phase of her life.