A cardiologist shares the 5 best foods to lower cholesterol

2023-02-03 18:38:43Lifestyle SHKRUAR NGA DR. ELIZABETH KLODAS
A cardiologist shares the 5 best foods to lower cholesterol
Illustrative photo

As a cardiologist who has treated thousands of patients, one of the most common health concerns I encounter is high cholesterol. But the solution doesn't always have to come from a pill, which can have side effects.

The foods we eat play an important role in keeping cholesterol levels low. The best part is that you don't need to put too many restrictions around your diet in order to see positive changes.

Here are five foods I eat regularly to help lower my cholesterol and keep my heart healthy:

1- Oatmeal and oats

Oats contain a lot of fiber, including soluble fiber that reduces the absorption of cholesterol in your digestive system. Fiber in general is also helpful in avoiding insulin spikes that can raise bad cholesterol levels.

2- Almonds

A 2018 study found that almonds can lower LDL (the bad kind) cholesterol while maintaining or even increasing HDL cholesterol — or the “good” kind that helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream.

3- Chia seeds

Chia seeds provide plenty of omega-3 essential fatty acids. Increasing the consumption of these healthy fats even by one gram per day is associated with a 16% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular problems.

4- Broccoli

Studies have shown a link between consuming vegetables and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Broccoli in particular is rich in soluble fiber, which works wonders for high cholesterol. Other cholesterol-busting vegetables to consider include spinach, Brussels sprouts, and collard greens.

5- Watermelon

Replace sugary foods with some sweet watermelon if you want to lower your cholesterol. Watermelon naturally contains lycopene, which has lipid-lowering properties, reducing total and LDL cholesterol.

* Dr. Elizabeth Klodas is a cardiologist. Dr. Klodas has published dozens of scientific articles during her career.


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