Which are the foods that help to keep Cholesterol In Check?

Check out this health tip:

8 Foods That Help To Keep Cholesterol In Check

Every year the statistics of people succumbing to heart diseases is increasing and so is the number of cases of high cholesterol. Sedentary lifestyle, improper diet and stress of modern life are all contributing factors.

In addition to medications for controlling cholesterol levels, there are some natural foods that can help in lowering cholesterol levels:

1 .Amla (Indian Gooseberry)

Better known as amla, Indian gooseberry is known to be hypolipididemic which means that it reduces lipid concentration. Drink 2 tbsp of amla juice or amla powder mixed with warm water every morning on an empty stomach.

2 .Oats

Oats has been marketed as the healthy breakfast option. Oats lowers LDL cholesterol also known as “bad cholesterol” significantly and is an extremely heart friendly food. Beta-glucen found in oats has the ability to absorb LDL and excrete it out of the body.

3 . Beans

Everyone knows that beans are good for you but did you also know that they help in controlling cholesterol levels in the body? Beans are high fibre foods in which the soluble fibre binds with the cholesterol and prevents its absorption in the body. Include red, black, white beans of all kinds in your meals.

4 . Nuts

Among nuts, walnuts are the best for lowering cholesterol since they contain high levels of omega 3 fatty acid. Research has shown that people eating walnuts regularly have reduced levels of cholesterol. Almonds and cashews are also good for the heart. Having too much nuts is not good since they are high on calorie. Eating a handful of mixed nuts every day should be enough.

5 . Garlic

Garlic has been used since ancient times for its medicinal value. It controls blood pressure, lowers cholesterol and reduces chances of blood clots that are a major cause of strokes. Use garlic generously in curries, daals, pizza, soups and other food.

6 . Black Tea

Drinking black tea has been shown to lower cholesterol levels. Tea also contains antioxidants that are useful for the body. It relaxes the blood vessels and prevents formation of clots and plaque in arteries.

7 . Palak (Spinach)

Besides containing a host of vitamins and minerals, spinach also contains lutein that helps reduce the build-up of cholesterol on arterial walls. Just eating half a cup of spinach everyday can provide benefits in lowering cholesterol levels. Use it in side dishes, salads or stir fry.

8 .  Alasi (Flaxseeds)

Flaxseed contains an omega 3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid that helps in lowering cholesterol levels and also protects against heart diseases.

So, go ahead and add these foods in your daily diet to keep your cholesterol levels in check. In addition, adopt a healthy lifestyle comprising of mindful dietary choices, physical activity and regular monitoring of cholesterol levels. Stay Healthy, Stay Happy.