
10 snack and meal ideas that help lower cholesterol levels
Cholesterol is a wax-like substance that is naturally present in every body cell. It supports cell-building function, is necessary to produce certain vitamins, and regulates hormones linked to various body functions. However, excess blood cholesterol increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. Changing one’s daily nutritional intake is one of the ways to control high cholesterol; this can be done by introducing the following foods and snacks to the meal plan.
Whole grains
Oatmeal is a rich and nourishing breakfast choice that can help lower cholesterol levels with regular consumption. The grain is rich in soluble fibers that naturally help reduce the absorption of bad cholesterol into the blood circulation. This lowers the amount of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in the bloodstream and prevents the arteries from clogging. It helps lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and stroke. Oatmeal is also one of the simplest snacks to make, and it can be topped off with fresh fruits and your favorite condiments.
Apples
Daily eating a few apple slices can considerably decrease low-density lipoprotein. Apples contain a soluble fiber called pectin that helps foods bind and increase stool density to improve bowel movement. This type of soluble fiber also lowers and controls the amount of fat released into the bloodstream. Essentially, these functions ensure the LDL levels don’t spike due to the over-absorption of fats from foods and beverages consumed.
Fatty fish
Omega-3 fatty acids play a critical role in lowering triglyceride levels in the bloodstream. This is a type of fat that triggers an increase in cholesterol. So naturally, lower levels of triglycerides manage to keep cholesterol levels in check. At the same time, omega-3s boost the production of healthy fats called high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL absorbs excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and carries it back to the liver to be processed out.