Lip-smacking oily junk food is what we crave today and every other day. From the cheese-dripping burgers to the crispy French fries, street food has our heart. But often, in that craving, we forget the kind of impact they can have on our bodies. They are the root cause of one of the most pressing health problems – high cholesterol levels. Cholesterol, two types - HDL or good cholesterol and LDL or bad cholesterol - is found in every cell of the human body, which is necessary for maintaining bodily functions including digesting foods and producing hormones. However, when increased, they can harm the heart.
(Also Read: High Cholesterol Diet: Effective Tips, Food and Healthy Recipes To Manage Your High Cholesterol Levels)
Cholesterol is an oil-based substance that doesn't mix with the blood. Hence they form a plaque in the walls of the arteries which prevents the blood from flowing naturally. This causes high blood pressure and in worst cases, a heart attack. Reasons for rising cholesterol levels are many – ranging from poor diet, obesity, lack of exercise, smoking, diabetes to relishing on junk food.
Foods That Help Lower Cholesterol Naturally:
We have prepared a list of foods that may be included in our daily diet to keep the cholesterol levels in check and keep our heart in a good condition.
1.Oats
Oatmeal contains soluble fibres that help to bring down the level of LDL or bad cholesterol in the body. Having a bowlful of oats every day can keep you healthy. Meanwhile, check out a handful of oatmeal recipes that you can relish.
Eat light and healthy food]s is important
2.Soy
It is said that consuming 25 grams of soy protein every day can bring down the LDL level by five to six percent. Soybeans and soy-based foods are also extremely tasty and can be included in our diet for a healthier lifestyle. Soya offers a range of recipes, be it vegetarian or non-vegetarian.
You can make many recipes from soya
3.Fish
Fish contains Omega-3 which helps in the reduction of triglycerides in the bloodstream and regulates the rhythm of the heart. Omega-3 also bring the LDL level to a sharp decline. We have curated a few fish recipes, so that you can have tasty and healthy, all together.
Fish contains Omega-3
4.Beans
These vegetables have huge fibre value, and that's why they take longer to be digested by the body. Beans, tossed in various recipes, are a treat to the taste buds and meanwhile, take care of our hearts.
(Also Read: Eating These Foods May Help Regulate Cholesterol Naturally)
5.Nuts
A nut a day keeps heart diseases away. Include nuts such as almonds, walnuts and peanuts in your diet and watch the LDL level diminish. Here are a few things you can cook up in the kitchen with nuts.
Add nuts to your daily diet
6.Spinach
Spinach contains carotenoids which are low in cholesterol. They also bind to the bile acid and bring down cholesterol levels. Adding to that, it is any kitchen's favourite.
Green leafy vegetables especially spinach should be a part of your diet
7.Apple
This favourite fruit contains pectin which helps to bring down shot-up cholesterol levels. Meanwhile, there is so much you can do with an apple – from crumble to strudel to pie.
Not just change in food consumption, cholesterol levels demand a healthy lifestyle to come down.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.