Foods That Lower Cholesterol

While it is true that our bodies cannot survive without cholesterol, too much of it is also not very good. Cholesterol is produced naturally in the liver, and most of the body's needs are met by this cholesterol. Any excess cholesterol comes from our diet, consisting of food high in its levels.

Among others, animal products like fatty meat and dairy items are foods high in cholesterol levels. If we over eat these foods, the LDL levels will increase, leading to numerous health problems.

Here we have listed some foods that naturally lower cholesterol readings.

Mono-unsaturated fats: Fat is a very common part of our diet. Yet, it is the main culprit to contribute to bad cholesterol. Butter, margarine and oil/lard for cooking are often the first ingredients that you put in a pan. Substitute these products with mono-unsaturated fats like olive oil, nuts, avocados and canola oil.
Plant sterols: It has been proved that plant sterols reduce the amount of bad cholesterol or LDL cholesterol that is absorbed through the intestine. Many margarine products and some yogurts are marketed as having plant sterols that will lower cholesterol. Though these products are generally more expensive than their non plant sterol counterparts, they have been proven to lower cholesterol.
Whole grain foods: are products that use unrefined or processed grain. They indirectly lower your cholesterol level. By eating more of these types of products than those high in saturated fats your cholesterol level will lower. Whole grain foods include cereals, brown rice and oatmeal.
Fresh fruit and vegetables: are other sources of foods that will improve the overall health of your body. By eating more of these types, your cholesterol will remain at healthy levels. The American Heart Association recommends five portions of fresh fruit and/or vegetables per day.
Low fat foods: if you can't resist creamy or any other form of dairy product, switch to low fat versions of these types of foods. Cereals taste as great with low fat milk!
If you could remember just one tip when it comes to lowering your cholesterol, it would be to avoid processed foods. Processed foods generally have high levels of trans and polyunsaturated fats which increase LDL cholesterol in our body. Fresh food is best to lower cholesterol.

Additional Information on Cholesterol

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