10 Easily Available Superfoods for High Cholesterol
High cholesterol is a serious problem that many of us face. The dread of yourself or a loved one ailing can get really overwhelming. But what if we told you that a few dietary changes and additions could not only help you manage bad cholesterol but also increase your HDL and benefit your heart. Here are 10 easily available superfoods that work miracles for those with high cholesterol.
1. Chia seeds
These tiny seeds contain a massive amount of fiber, nutrients, proteins, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, all of which majorly boost heart health, lower cholesterol, abnormal heart rhythms, blood pressure, and so much more.
2. Avocados
With a ton of nutrients, fiber, and monounsaturated fatty acids, avocados are the perfect add-on to help save the day. They drastically reduce LDL and keep your heart healthy.
3. Berries
Berries and fruits like apples, grapes, citrus fruits, etc., contain soluble fibers, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce bad cholesterol and lower the risk of developing several illnesses like heart diseases.
4. Oats and quinoa
Oats contain a soluble fiber called beta-glucan that helps lower your bad cholesterol and helps lower the risk of developing heart diseases. On the other hand, quinoa is gluten-free and contains as many amino acids as there are in meat. It boosts heart health and is beneficial for your overall health too.
5. Green tea
Green tea has antioxidants that help improve your metabolism, heart health, and lower your cholesterol levels significantly. It also lowers your risk of getting heart attacks or strokes. Sugar-free green teas are a better alternative to other teas.
6. Nuts
Nuts like almonds and walnuts are a storehouse of nutrients like potassium, calcium, omega-3 fatty acids, etc., and the fibers can help block cholesterol from getting absorbed into your body. They also contain amino acids that help keep your blood pressure in check. Munching on nuts daily can lower your bad cholesterol immensely.
7. Soy
Soy-based foods like soy milk, tofu, or soybeans can help lower your cholesterol levels and keep your heart health in check. Drinking two cups of soy milk daily can reduce LDL upto 5%.
8. Dark chocolate
Sugar-free, dark chocolate can work wonders for your heart health. You read that right! It can decrease LDL, increase HDL, and keep your blood pressure in check. It also cuts down the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
9. Leafy vegetables
Leafy vegetables contain antioxidants that help lower the risk of heart diseases and blocked arteries. Lutein present in these vegetables also ensures better heart health and lower LDL levels.
10. Fatty fish
Fatty fish consists of omega-3 fatty acids, which help you keep your heart healthy and increase good cholesterol. It prevents you from the risk of a stroke, abnormal heart rhythms, and inflammation. Eating 2-3 helpings a week of fish like salmon and mackerel effectively does the job.