Top 5 Foods to Kick High Cholesterol
Heart disease is the world’s leading cause of death.
Having high cholesterol levels, especially “bad” LDL, is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Low levels of the “good” HDL cholesterol and high triglyceride measures are also linked to increased risk.
While many people resort to harsh drugs to combat cholesterol, those in the know realize that your diet has a powerful effect on cholesterol levels and other cardiovascular risk factors.
Here are 5 of the top foods that can lower cholesterol and improve heart health naturally:
Another study on patients with type 2 diabetes showed significant reductions in serum levels of total cholesterol and elevations in HDL cholesterol, re-balancing the overall blood lipid profile.
Heart disease is the world’s leading cause of death.
Having high cholesterol levels, especially “bad” LDL, is linked to an increased risk of heart disease. Low levels of the “good” HDL cholesterol and high triglyceride measures are also linked to increased risk.
While many people resort to harsh drugs to combat cholesterol, those in the know realize that your diet has a powerful effect on cholesterol levels and other cardiovascular risk factors.
Here are 5 of the top foods that can lower cholesterol and improve heart health naturally:
- Legumes: Legumes, also known as pulses, are a group of plant foods that includes beans, peas and lentils. Legumes contain a lot of fiber, minerals and protein. Replacing some refined grains and processed meats in your diet with legumes can lower your risk of heart disease.
- Avocados: Avocados are an exceptionally nutrient-dense fruit. They're a rich source of monounsaturated fats and fiber — two nutrients that help lower “bad” LDL and raise “good” HDL cholesterol.
- Fish: Fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, are excellent sources of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s bolster heart health by increasing “good” HDL cholesterol and lowering inflammation and stroke risk.
- Berries: Many fruits contain bioactive compounds that help prevent heart disease and other chronic diseases due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Eating berries and grapes, which are particularly rich sources of these plant compounds, can help increase “good” HDL and lower “bad” LDL cholesterol.
- Turmeric: The medicinal properties of turmeric's active ingredient, curcumin, have been recognized for centuries, and is a very promising natural remedy for inflammation, high cholesterol and heart disease.
Another study on patients with type 2 diabetes showed significant reductions in serum levels of total cholesterol and elevations in HDL cholesterol, re-balancing the overall blood lipid profile.