Foods That Lower Bad Cholesterol Fast

High levels of bad cholesterol, also known as low density lipids (or LDLs), can quickly lead to health complications. Diet plays an important role in managing your cholesterol levels. Many foods have properties that lower bad cholesterol and raise good cholesterol in your blood.

Fiber

Foods that contain high levels of soluble fiber are ideal for lowering and removing bad cholesterol. Soluble fiber works by reducing cholesterol absorption rates in your digestive tract. Many foods contain this fiber, such as oatmeal, oat bran, prunes, barley and apples. Using at least five to ten grams of soluble fiber per day can reduce both your total and LDL cholesterol.

Omega-3 fatty acids

Fatty fishes are considered heart healthy eating because of their high Omega-3 fatty acid contents. These oils and acids help reduce your blood pressure and lower the risk of developing blood clots. It is recommended that people consume at least two servings of fatty fish a week. Many species contain Omega-3, but those with the highest levels are mackeral, herring, tuna, sardines, lake trout, salmon and halibut. Bake the fish to avoid adding additional fats to the meal.

Nuts

Many species of nuts are known to reduce blood cholesterol. Nuts are rich in polyunsaturated fats and work to keep blood vessels healthy. The FDA states that eating a handful of nuts each day can may reduce your risk of heart disease. Avoid nuts that are coated with salt, sugar and other flavorings. Just a few of the species that have these cholesterol reducing properties are almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts, walnuts, pecans and pistachios.

Olive oil

Replace butter and other animals fats in your cooking with olive oil. The mix of antioxidants contained in olive oil reduces harmful LDLs, while leaving HDL cholesterol alone. About two tablespoons per day is enough to receive its great benefits. It is easy to work olive oil into your diet. Saute vegetables in it, using either a butter substitute or vinegar for a tasty salad dressing. Exceeding the recommended levels of olive oil per day is not recommended due to its high calorie content.

There are many delicious and easy to prepare foods that can help lower your bad cholesterol. Changing your diet is the key to maintaining healthy levels of LDLs. By avoid high cholesterol foods, you can avoid heart complications in the future.

Easy to prepare foods that can help lower your bad cholesterol