How to Lower Cholesterol Naturally And Keep Your Heart Healthy
When it comes to
cholesterol, you can look at it as two cars driving down opposite sides of the road. The HDL car containing
high-density lipoproteins sucks up plaque and the LDL car containing low-density lipoproteins deposits more
plaque. The LDL car is speeding towards your heart, while the HDL car is heading towards your liver.
When you get your cholesterol level
checked and the doctor looks at you with concern while showing you a number over 200, that means the LDL car is
winning the race for your overall health. Most likely, you've been eating too many foods that contain high
levels of plaque producing fat. As the amount of plaque continues to build up in the arteries leading to your
heart and brain, this reduces the flow of blood and oxygen. Eventually, you are going to have either a heart
attack or stroke unless you take action to reverse this bad outcome.
Learn How To Lower Cholesterol Naturally
Fortunately, you don't have to rely on
drugs to remove the bad cholesterol from your body. There is a natural way of reducing that sticky LDL stuff
that's stealing your future. But, in order to do so, you've got to make a serious commitment to changing the way
you eat, as well as, adding exercise to your daily routine. In other words . . .
It's time to hit the gas on the HDL car
that cleans out that sticky plaque and delivers it to your liver for elimination. With time and effort you can
lower those numbers and make your doctor smile. First, if you want to learn how to lower cholesterol naturally
you need to know which types of foods can help you do this.
How To Lower Cholesterol Naturally – Foods To
Eat
Avocados – Avocados are
high in a substance known as beta-sitosterol, and studies have shown that they can significantly reduce
cholesterol.
Oatmeal – Oatmeal is
probably the number one type of food that is highly prized for its ability to lower cholesterol.
Blueberries –
Blueberries are high in antioxidants.
Broccoli – Broccoli has
lots of heart-healthy fiber and nutrients.
High-Fiber Foods – In
addition to oatmeal, other foods that are high in fiber are recommended for their cholesterol busting benefits.
Such foods like oat bran, kidney beans, barley, apples, pears and prunes contain soluble
fiber.
Fish – Fish contains
omega-3 fatty acids, which are proven to reduce blood pressure and prevent blood clots. The best in this
category are: albacore tuna, salmon, herring, mackerel, lake trout, halibut and
sardines.
Nuts – Eating a handful
of nuts each day can lead to a healthier heart. Just be sure to not overdo it, because nuts do contain fat. Go
for: walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, peanuts and pistachio nuts.
Olive Oil – Two
tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil added to your diet is a good substitute for higher fat oils or
butter.
While adding the above foods to your diet
is a good start, you'll need to be sure to greatly reduce the amount of fatty foods you eat and cut down on salt
and sugar intake as well. And, remember that you need to move your body and get some exercise. Exercise is a
major contributor to the body's ability to lower cholesterol. You don't need to become a gym rat, just do some
mild physical activity. These changes will gradually lower your cholesterol and you'll also have the added bonus
of looking and feeling great.
|