5 Foods That Reduce Cholesterol Naturally
The convenient American diet of processed food has created an epidemic of high cholesterol. It is a fact that your diet impacts your cholesterol numbers. If you have high cholesterol, not only do you have to cut back on foods that send your bad cholesterol (LDL) soaring, but you must reach for foods that boost good cholesterol(HDL). A balanced diet is key. According to Piedmont.org these are 5 foods should be included into your diet to help fight high cholesterol.
1) Oatmeal, oat bran and high-fiber foods. Foods high in soluble fiber help reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Soluble fiber is also found in kidney beans, apples, pears, barley and prunes.
2) Fish and omega-3 fatty acids. Eating fatty fish can be heart-healthy because of its high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce your blood pressure and risk of developing blood clots. The American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fish each week.
3) Walnuts, almonds and other nuts. Eating a handful of nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, pecans, pistachios and walnuts each day may reduce your risk of heart disease.
4) Olive oil. Olive oil is packed full of beneficial antioxidants that can lower your “bad” (LDL) cholesterol while leaving your “good” (HDL) cholesterol untouched. The cholesterol-lowering effects of olive oil are even greater if you choose extra-virgin olive oil.
5) Foods with added plant sterols and stanols. Foods are now available that have been fortified with sterols or stanols, which are substances found in plants that help block the absorption of cholesterol. Margarines, orange juice and yogurt drinks with added plant sterols can help reduce LDL cholesterol by more than 10 percent.
Happy Eating!
Nurse Barb
Ecclesiastes 9:7: “Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart, for God has already approved what you do.”
