What are some good wasy to lower bad cholesterol?

A few years ago my doctor wanted to put me on cholesterol medication because my numbers were so bad. I made a deal with her -- if I could get the numbers under control within one month I wouldn't have to do the meds. A month later she was shocked that I had managed it! Here's what I changed: 1. Less fried foods. I didn't cut them out altogether -- I love fried stuff. I just tried to cut back on how often I ate it. 2. No whole milk. I was raised on whole milk and 2% and skim just taste watered down to me. I found a dairy that carries condensed skim milk though -- they take out all the fat and then they take out some of the water too! It tastes just like whole to me, but without all the bad stuff! 3. Cheerios or oatmeal for breakfast. Oats are really good for lowering cholesterol. Hope this helps!