If you have high cholesterol, your doctor will likely recommend lifestyle changes before giving you a prescription for cholesterol-controlling medication. High cholesterol can put you at an increased risk of suffering a heart attack or stroke. You can incorporate certain foods into your diet in order to lower your cholesterol. After following a cholesterol lowering diet, your doctor will retest your levels through blood work.
Unsaturated Fats
Unsaturated fats are often referred to as the heart-healthy fats. They are most often derived from plants and are less likely to adversely affect your blood cholesterol levels. Olive oil, canola oil and peanut oil may actually help lower the bad type of cholesterol (LDL).
High-Fiber Foods
Foods that are high in soluble fiber can help lower the cholesterol of patients. This is because soluble fiber inhibits the absorption of cholesterol in the blood. Some good fiber sources for your diet can include oatmeal, oat bran muffins, apples, pears, beans and prunes.
Nuts
Nuts are a good source of unsaturated fat and can also help the elasticity of the blood vessels in the body. Some of the most beneficial types of nuts for those with high cholesterol are walnuts and almonds.
Fish
Fish are high in omega-3 fatty acids, an oil that may be beneficial to blood cholesterol. Fish should be consumed two to three times a week. If you don't eat enough fish, supplements are available. Types of fish high in omega-3 fatty acids are salmon, herring, sardines, mackerel and lake trout.
Complex Carbs
Complex carbohydrates can give you the energy you require without the addition of saturated fat. Whole-grain pasta, wheat bread, brown rice and sweet potatoes are good sources of complex carbs. Choose fresh versions of these foods over processed types. Processed foods are often high in salt, which should be limited if you have high cholesterol.
