Eating for Lower Cholesterol Naturally

Diet to Lower Cholesterol Naturally

Too much cholesterol in your blood is a major cause for heart related problems.  Despite this, your body needs a good supply of cholesterol to function properly.  Here are some important facts that most people do not know about cholesterol:

• You body makes most of the cholesterol you have.  So not all the cholesterol comes from foods you eat.
• There are ‘good’ cholesterol, which your body needs.  This type is called the HDL cholesterol. 
• You body needs cholesterol to function properly.
• The ‘bad’ LDL cholesterol are what causes heart problems.  This stems from fatty acids.
• Saturated fats raise your level of blood cholesterol
  

Diet Foods That Lower Cholesterol

By eating healthy foods low in saturated fat and cholesterol, you can help reduce cholesterol levels in your blood.  For more serious conditions, consult your doctor, and they can help you setup a plan for reducing cholesterol.

So what foods are healthy, low in fat that can help to lower cholesterol naturally?  Below is a list of different foods that are healthy, low in fat, and can help reduce cholesterol.

Fruits and veggies, especially high fiber ones

• Apples
• Bananas
• Bean sprouts
• Bell peppers
• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Cauliflower
• Celery
• Cucumber
• Garlic
• Grape fruit
• Lettuce
• Onions
• Oranges
• Peaches
• Pears
• Peas

Foods high in "good" fats (ie. monosaturated fats)

• Avocado
• Almonds
• Olive oil
• Walnuts

Chooose whole grain products

• Whole grain breads
• Whole grain bagels
• Whole grain muffins

Eat foods high in fiber

• Oatmeal
• Vegetables and fruits (see above)
• Flax seed

Soy products

• Soy beans
• Tofu

Select lean meats

• Salmon
• Tuna
• Chicken

Foods to Avoid To Reduce Cholesterol

Aside from eating more healthy and low fat foods such as above, there are also foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol, which you should avoid:

• Butter, cheese, margarine, and egg yolks
• Oils high in saturated fat: coconut oil and palm oil
• Whole milk (homo milk)
• High fat processed meats such as sausages, hot dogs, and bologna
• Shortening and lard (solid fats)