Blood cholesterol comes from two main sources: the foods we eat and what we make. Too high or too low a level of cholesterol in the blood can be a very dangerous factor, often leading to a heart attack or stroke. There are many people who take statins to lower their cholesterol levels. However, there are many natural foods you can eat to lower cholesterol safely and naturally without the use of dangerous statins. You can see a significant improvement in your cholesterol levels once you start consuming these whole foods on a daily basis.
Here is a list of the top 10 natural foods that help maintain healthy cholesterol levels in the body.
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<li> <b>oat bran</b> and <b>brown rice bran</b> are the best foods for lowering cholesterol. They are rich in soluble fiber and thereby lower cholesterol levels by binding fats and heavy metals.</li>
<li> <b>blueberries</b> (Organic) Alone Can Help Lower Cholesterol As Effectively As Statins! Berries in general help prevent bad cholesterol from oxidizing and they are very rich in antioxidants.</li>
<li> <b>fishes</b> is a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. Omega-3 fatty acids also help lower triglyceride levels.</li>
<li> <b>garlic </b>contains allicin and can have a strong antioxidant effect. Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure.</li>
<li> <b>apples </b>contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Apple's two types of fiber are useful for lowering cholesterol and reducing the risk of hardening of the arteries, stroke and heart attack. Apple's insoluble fiber removes LDL from the body, while apple's fiber pectin reduces the amount of LDL cholesterol made in the liver.</li>
<li> <b>nuts </b>are rich in fiber, phytonutrients and antioxidants such as vitamin E and selenium. Nuts also contain plant sterols and the healthy fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated).</li>
<li> <b>beans </b>are high in soluble fiber; lowers bad cholesterol and raises good cholesterol. Other foods high in soluble fiber include lentils, peas, and ground flaxseed.</li>
<li> <b>Foods containing plant sterols </b>(or stanols) are powerful phytosterols found in plant membranes that can block cholesterol absorption. Sterols occur naturally in various types of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, legumes and vegetable oils.</li>
<li> <b>olive oil </b>It is known to reduce LDLs, increase HDLs and is rich in antioxidants. </li>
<li> <b>soy protein -</b>Studies show that a total daily intake of 25 grams of soy protein significantly lowers LDL cholesterol levels. Soy is high in polyunsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Soy products are also great substitutes for animal products.</li>
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<p>Finally, it's important to remember that cholesterol is only found in animal products, not plant foods. Therefore, eating fewer animal foods and more plant foods lowers blood cholesterol levels. If you already have high cholesterol, temporarily switching to a vegetarian diet that includes fish and low-fat dairy products like yogurt can help bring your levels down quickly.</p>
Thanks to Robin Reichert
