There’s no argument regarding the subject of cholesterol that it can be reduced through diet. Yes, what we consume is the number one cause of increased cholesterol levels in humans. So, we must know the kind of food that is best for moderating our cholesterol levels. That’s where this article comes in. In this article, you will be reading about cholesterol-lowering foods. You’ll get to see a list of recommended foods that help reduce cholesterol in your body. Let’s get started!
Cholesterol Lowering Foods
Here are some of the best cholesterol-lowering foods that you should consume:
1. Oats
Oats are arguably one of the cholesterol-free foods that you can most readily find anywhere in the world. What makes Oats stand out is that it contains soluble fiber, which helps reduce the absorption of cholesterol in your blood. It is also recommended that when you eat oats, you can add fruits to help you enhance their nutritional value.
2. Fish
Fish contains healthy fats that can help you reduce the risk of cholesterol intake in your blood. Yes, fish also help reduce blood pressure and decrease your risk of developing blood clots. Also, remember that fish is a good substitute for red meat. Red meat offers the opposite of what fish offer. So, be sure to eat fish a couple of times in week to be cholesterol-safe.
3. Nuts
Nuts are excellent sources of healthy fats, fiber, and plant sterols. These components are known to combine to lower cholesterol levels in humans. Nuts such as almonds and walnuts should be consumed regularly for a get noticable decrease in your cholesterol levels.
4. Olive Oil
Using olive oil in place of butter or other saturated fats can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels. So, make it a norm to regularly use olive oil for cooking. This is one of the unknown, yet useful ways to have delicious food and improve your heart health.
5. Avocados
Avocados are packed with monounsaturated fats and fiber which can help lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol levels. In light of this, normalize adding avocado slices to your meals. You’ll never regret this choice.
6. Legumes
Legumes contain high levels of fiber and protein. Some legumes that contain high levels of these properties are beans and lentils. These foods help reduce the absorption of cholesterol. Aside from reducing cholesterol, you can also experience other benefits from consuming legumes.
7. Fruits
Fruits are high in pectin. Pectin is a type of fiber that is soluble in the bloodstream and helps in lowering LDL cholesterol levels. Some of the fruits that are high in pectin include apples, grapes, strawberries, and oranges.
8. Vegetables
If you’re in search of whole-pack foods that help in reducing cholesterol levels, then vegetables should be your first pick. With vegetables, you get food rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Examples of vegetables that have lowering cholesterol properties are broccoli, spinach, and other green leaves. So, now is the time to include vegetables in your foods if you haven’t done so. They are a lifesaver.
READ THIS: Healthy Snacks
9. Soy Products
When it comes to foods that contain cholesterol-reducing protein, then Soy Products come first. They include soy milk, tofu, and others. You can replace cholesterol-rich milk in your home with soy products. They’re often recommended by nutritionists for these properties.
10. Dark Chocolate
Surprisingly, dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which help lower blood pressure and reduce LDL cholesterol. You can combine dark chocolate with your morning beverages daily to keep your cholesterol level at a moderate level. It is one of the best ways to keep your heart healthy.
11. Garlic
Garlic has a long history of being the solution to many health problems. Yes, and cholesterol is included among health problems that can be controlled by garlic. Garlic contains flavors and properties that can greatly reduce cholesterol in the body. So, it is wise to infuse garlic in your food to get the best results as regards moderating the cholesterol levels in your body.
12. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes contain rich fiber and antioxidant contents. These contents can help do well in fighting cholesterol in your bloodstream. They are also delicious. So, you have no problem consuming them whether boiled or fried. However, it is advised that you boil them before eating to derive maximum benefits from them.
Conclusion
High levels of cholesterol can increase your chances of getting sick. It can develop underlying health conditions that you may not know about. Usually, a high level of cholesterol begins with what we take in. So, it is important that before we consume anything at all, we take our time to study the contents of this food to ensure that we’re going to remain healthy after consumption.
