Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is carried in the blood. When there are excess amounts of cholesterol in the blood, it can cause a build up in the arterial walls, possibly causing blockages that can be debilitating and sometimes fatal. In order to keep this from happening, you should keep your cholesterol intake as low as possible. Eating a healthy diet is great for your overall health. Not only will a healthy diet help to lower overall cholesterol levels, it can reduce the risk for certain diseases and illnesses.
Fruits
According to MedTV.com, all plant-based foods contain no cholesterol. In order to significantly reduce the amount of cholesterol in the blood, you should be eating at least 3 to 5 servings of fruits per day. Fruits are also very low in total fat. This is a wonderful benefit to people who have a sweet tooth. Instead of eating dessert after supper, eat some fruit instead. It can help satisfy that sweet tooth while keeping cholesterol at a minimum.
Vegetables
Vegetables are also one of the best foods to help lower cholesterol because they are plant based. It is important to remember that vegetables need to be prepared with little to no fat in order to keep the cholesterol level down. Steaming is a great, no cholesterol method of cooking vegetables to make them taste better. Broccoli smothered in cheese sauce is a popular dish, but the cheese sauce adds extra unwanted cholesterol to an otherwise perfectly healthy dish. Instead of the cheese sauce, use some heart healthy, no-cholesterol imitation butter spread to boost up the flavor content and keep cholesterol at a minimum.
Whole Grains
Anyone trying to cut back their intake of cholesterol will find whole grains and legumes to be a great way to get full and keep cholesterol at a low amount. Whole grains include unrefined whole wheat breads and pastas. Many companies that sell bread and pasta will have a selection of different unrefined whole grain products to choose from, making it easier to incorporate these things into your diet.
Legumes
Legumes are defined as any bean or pea that can be consumed. Dole Nutrition states that legumes come in two types, mature and immature. Mature legumes are the types of beans and peas that are dried, while immature are canned or frozen to maintain freshness. According to Vegetarian.com, legumes are full of protein. Because they are derived from a plant, they are much better for you than meat as a protein source because they contain no cholesterol.
