Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in fats in the bloodstream, according to MayoClinic.com. Although cholesterol is necessary for your body to build healthy cells, high cholesterol can lead to the buildup of fatty deposits in artery and blood vessel walls. This can make your heart work harder to pump blood through your circulatory system, leading to heart disease. Some nutritionists and other medical researchers believe that diet can help regulate your cholesterol levels.
Nutritional therapy is not a replacement for medical attention. Talk to your doctor if you plan to alter your diet to treat high cholesterol.
High-Fiber Diet
According to James F. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," foods high in dietary fiber might help keep cholesterol from building up in your bloodstream. Whole-grain pastas and breads, unbuttered popcorn, lentils and black beans are loaded with dietary fiber. Fruits, vegetables and berries such as artichokes, raspberries, apples and bananas also provide dietary fiber.
Garlic Diet
Garlic has been used in medicinal and healing practices for more than 10,000 years, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." Ancient Egyptians and traditional Chinese medicine practitioners used garlic cloves to ward off illness and heart problems. Allicin and ajoene, the active chemical compounds in garlic, also might help reduce cholesterol levels in the bloodstream. Adding garlic to your foods might help prevent excessive strain on the heart, but check with your physician before using garlic to treat high cholesterol.
Nut Diet
Although many people think of almonds and other types of nuts as fatty, these foods might help lower your cholesterol levels, according to MayoClinic.com. Nuts contain polyunsaturated fatty acids, which might regulate cholesterol and promote the health of blood vessel cells. These foods can be used in place of meats and cheeses in salads and other dishes. MayoClinic.com recommends pistachios, almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts and pecans. Choose varieties that are not coated with sugar or salt.
References
- MayoClinic.com: High Cholesterol
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D.; 1997
- "The Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 1991
- MayoClinic.com: Cholesterol---Top Five Foods to Lower Your Numbers
