How do foods lower cholesterol?
According to the American Heart Association, cholesterol is needed for the body to function correctly. However, when cholesterol levels get too high, it increases the risk of heart disease. A healthy diet is key to controlling cholesterol and some foods actually lower levels.Soluble FibersFoods rich in soluble fibers like kidney beans, apples and oatmeal, limit the absorption of cholesterol into the body and can reduce bad, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.Polyunsaturated Fatty acidsFoods containing high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids, like nuts, have been shown to reduce cholesterol and keep the blood vessels strong and flexible.Omega-3 Fatty AcidsFoods with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, like fish, can lower cholesterol and blood pressure, and also lower the risk of blood clots.AntioxidantsFoods high in antioxidants, like olive oil, work to lower bad (LDL) cholesterol and maintain healthy (HDL) cholesterol.Sterols or StanolsSterols or stanols are found in plants
