It is important to take care of your heart, don’t we all know this? Over the years, many companies have come up with a variety of products to keep your cholesterol levels in check. But we need to understand the reality. If you take the right and good food, then there is no need to rely on these products available in the market.
In fact, we have a natural remedy – yes, it is something that is found in everyone’s kitchen. Now, all you need to understand is why it is important to lower your cholesterol levels. Also, what should be eaten to keep it right. Let’s find out.
Know how food affects your cholesterol level
Cholesterol, also called waxy fat, is found in all cells of the body. LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) is known as bad cholesterol. Whereas HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is considered good cholesterol.
LDL is the bad cholesterol, which blocks blood from flowing in one’s blood vessels. hinders it. It can lead to serious health problems like heart attack or stroke. While HDL is considered good cholesterol, it helps in removing excess cholesterol from the body.
You will be surprised to know that your food choices can affect your cholesterol levels in a big way. Yes, consuming high amounts of high-fat animal foods like meat, eggs and dairy products can raise your cholesterol levels.
At the same time, foods such as vegetables, fruits, beans and oats contain a lot of fiber. Which are very important for our body. Exercise daily to lower cholesterol and maintain a balanced weight, quit smoking and eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to manage cholesterol levels.
1. Oats: They contain a type of soluble fiber, known as beta glucan which helps in reducing cholesterol in the blood.
2. Beans: They are packed with soluble fiber, which helps in reducing bad cholesterol.
3. Okra: It is low in calories and high in solubility in fiber. It helps in controlling the level of cholesterol.
4. Nuts: Almonds, walnuts and peanuts are good for your heart health, but only when consumed in a certain amount. As suggested by an expert. They can also help you lower your LDL levels and triglycerides.
5. Legumes: These are high in protein and soluble fiber. They help in reducing your cholesterol level.
6. Fruits: Apples, strawberries and grapes are loaded with pectin. It is a type of soluble fiber, which lowers cholesterol levels.
7. Soybeans: Tofu or soy milk is high in protein and fiber and helps in controlling cholesterol levels.
8. Fatty fish: Varieties like salmon, sardines and mackerel can be eaten in lieu of meat. That’s because they contain high amounts of LDL-boosting fat. Fatty fish is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids that lower cholesterol levels.