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There are many prescription drugs that can lower high cholesterol. However, with so many potential side effects, those looking to bring their cholesterol to a healthy level may wish to try a more natural method. Dietary changes are one such option.

Studies show that the best diet for lowering cholesterol is the vegan diet, sometimes referred to as “strict vegetarian”. Vegans are those who have cut all animal and animal-derived products from their diets. They eat no meat, dairy products, or eggs; many do not even eat honey. Personal moral ideals aside, veganism is a smart choice for those looking to switch to a low cholesterol diet.

In fact, eating only plant-based foods means zero cholesterol intake. Big offenders like red meat, shrimp, and eggs do not play a role in the vegan diet, and cutting out dairy products has the added benefit of reducing saturated fat intake. Overall, many vegans see a decrease in LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, the type of cholesterol responsible for clinging to artery walls and causing buildup or blockages. Some even see a reversal of this process, resulting in cleaner, healthier blood vessels.

Vegan diets also tend to be higher in dietary fiber than non-vegan diets. Dietary fiber, especially fiber from whole grains, has been shown to aid in lowering cholesterol. One theory is that fiber binds with cholesterol in the intestines and changes how it is absorbed by the body. Increasing dietary fiber intake can help facilitate this process. In addition, switching to a vegan diet often results in eating high-fiber foods instead of calorie-dense, high-fat foods, effectively lowering cholesterol intake while boosting fiber consumption.

A plant-based diet focusing on whole, unprocessed foods is the best natural way to lower cholesterol. People who adopt this diet may also see a decrease in body mass index, lower blood pressure, and higher energy levels. As long as those making the switch to veganism eat a variety of foods, there is no reason why the diet cannot be maintained as part of an overall, healthy, low-cholesterol lifestyle.

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