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Which foods help reduce cholesterol?
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Nutrition & Diet
Question #12409
45 days ago
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Which foods help reduce cholesterol? - #12409

Keya

I am starting to get really worried about my cholesterol levels. I had some blood work done last month and my doc told me they're a bit high. Like I should be doing something about it before it becomes a real problem. I've been trying to eat healthier, but I honestly don’t know much about which foods help reduce cholesterol. Someone mentioned oats, but what else? I've also heard that avocados are good, but I really don't know how to incorporate those into my daily meals without feeling like I'm forcing myself to eat them. My breakfast usually just consists of toast and coffee. Last week I tried switching to whole grain bread, but I can’t just live off toast, you know? I’m also a little confused about fats. Are all fats bad? Should I be avoiding things like butter completely? I get super lost in all the info online about which foods help reduce cholesterol, it’s overwhelming! When I try to search, it's like a million conflicting opinions come up. Pls help! Any specific recipes or meal ideas would be super helpful too! I want to get this under control but not sure how.

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Doctors’ responses

High cholesterol can indeed be concerning, but you’re off to a great start by wanting to make dietary changes. There are several foods that can help manage cholesterol levels effectively. You’re right about oats; they contain beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that can reduce LDL cholesterol. Incorporating oats into your breakfast, like having oatmeal or adding a scoop to smoothies, can be a good start. Avocados are also beneficial due to their healthy fats, which can help lower LDL cholesterol without affecting HDL. You can add them to salads or mash them onto whole grain toast for a simple meal.

Legumes, such as beans, lentils, and chickpeas, are high in fiber and can be included in soups or as a salad base. Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3s that can benefit heart health. Try having these once or twice a week as a grilled or baked option. Nuts like walnuts and almonds are good snack choices, providing healthy fats and nutrients that support cholesterol reduction. Just watch portion sizes, as nuts are calorie-dense.

When it comes to fats, it’s not about avoiding them all but choosing the right ones. Replace saturated fats—like those found in butter and fatty meats—with healthier options such as olive oil or spreads made from olive oil. These contain monounsaturated fats, which can improve blood cholesterol levels.

For recipes, you might consider a simple quinoa salad with black beans, chopped veggies, and avocado dressing. Adding a squeeze of lemon or some spices can enhance the flavors without extra salt. Another easy meal is baked salmon with a side of roasted vegetables drizzled with olive oil.

Starting with these changes can make a significant impact. Keep in mind to maintain a balanced diet, and pair these foods with regular physical activity for the best results. If you are finding conflicting information online, focusing on evidence-based principles, provided by recognized health authorities, can often give the clearest guidance. Always discuss any major dietary changes with your healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are on medication.

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