Top 10 Natural Foods to Lower Cholesterol Safely and Naturally

The cholesterol in the blood comes from two main sources: the food we eat and what we produce. Cholesterol, which is too high or too low in the blood can be a very dangerous factor, often leading to a heart attack or a stroke. There are many people, the statin drugs to reduce their cholesterol. However, there are many natural foods you can eat to lower cholesterol safely and naturally without the use of dangerous statin drugs. You will notice a significant improvement in your cholesterol levels, once you begin to consume these Whole Foods on a daily basis.

Here is a list of the top 10 natural food to maintain a healthy cholesterol levels in body.

1. oat bran and brown rice bran are the best foods for reducing cholesterol. They are rich in soluble fiber, it lowers cholesterol by binding fats and heavy metals.



2. blueberries (organic) May alone reduce cholesterol as effectively as statin drugs! Berries, in general, to prevent the oxidation of bad cholesterol and they are super rich in antioxidants.



3. Fish is a good source of protein and omega-3-fatty acids, which has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol. Omega-3 fatty acids also contribute to triglyceride levels.



4. garlic contains allicin and can be a powerful antioxidant effect. Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure.



5. apples both soluble and insoluble fiber. Apple's two types of fibers are useful for reducing cholesterol levels and decreasing the risk of hardening of the arteries, stroke and heart attack. Apple's insoluble fiber works to remove LDL from the body, while Apple's fiber pectin reduces the amount of LDL-cholesterol in the liver.



6. Nuts are rich in fiber, phytonutrients and antioxidants such as vitamin E and selenium. Nuts also contain plant sterols and healthy fats (mono-and unsaturated).



7. beans are high in soluble fiber, which lowers bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. Other foods with high soluble fiber include lentils, peas, and ground flaxseeds.



8. Foods with plant sterols (or stanols) are powerful phytosterols in plant membranes, the May-block cholesterol absorption. Sterols are found naturally in several types of fruit, vegetables, nuts, seeds, grains, legumes, and vegetable oils.



9. oil has been known to reduce the LDLs, HDLs increase, and is rich in antioxidants.



10. Soy protein - Studies show that a total daily intake of 25 grams of soy protein significantly lowers LDL cholesterol. Soy has a high level of polyunsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals. Soy products are also a great replacement for animal products.

Last but not least, it's important to keep in mind that cholesterol is found only in animal products, not plans foods. Therefore, eat fewer animal foods and more plant foods will lower the cholesterol in the blood. If you already have high cholesterol, temporarily switch to a vegetarian diet with fish and fat-free dairy products, like yogurt May reduce your levels quickly.

 

Robin Reichert is a natural health writer, AFPA Certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, and is currently a graduate student of natural health at Clayton College. Lifelong learning and educating others about natural health is her passion.

For more natural health and wellness information, please go to Robin's Wellness Resource Center at http://www.wellness-bee.com

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