One of the keys to protecting the health of your heart is to lower your cholesterol. The fabulous news about this, is that lowering those numbers is something that can be achieved naturally through diet.
High Fiber foods like oatmeal and oat bran contain a soluble fiber that works to reduce the amount of low-density lipoprotein – which is the form of cholesterol that you don’t want in your body.
- Oatmeal
- Oat Bran
- Kidney Beans
- Apples
- Pears
- Prunes
- Barley
- Bananas
- Oranges
- Nectarines
- Grapefruit
- Peaches
- Nectarines
- Lima Beans
Antioxidants lower low-density lipoprotein, while leaving your “good” cholesterol alone.
- Olive Oil
- Red Beans
- Blueberries
- Pinto Beans
- Cranberries
- Artichokes
- Blackberries
- Raspberries
Fish contains high levels of omaga-3 fatty acids. These reduce the risk of developing blood clots because they also reduce blood pressure. “The American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fish a week.” Remember that it’s best to avoid unhealthy fat by preparing grilled or baked fish.
- Mackerel
- Lake Trout
- Herring
- Halibut
- Albacore Tuna
- Sardines
- Salmon
- Flaxseed Oil
Nuts are capable of reducing blood cholesterol due to their richness in polyunsaturated fatty acid. Try eating a handful each day to reduce your risk of heart disease.
- Walnuts
- Almonds
- Hazelnuts
- Pistachios
- Pecans
- Peanuts
- Pine Nuts
Other things you can do to benefit your heart health include: regular excercise, cutting back on the consumption of meat, drink only in moderation, and don’t smoke.
Sources
MayoClinic
WebMd