While your last physical went pretty well, your doctor was concerned about the amount of LDL or bad cholesterol in your system. There is cause for concern; high cholesterol of this type can lead to several health woes, including heart disease. Your doctor probably gave you some ideas of what foods to avoid, as well as counseled you to exercise regularly. Along with that good advice, consider including some of these six foods in your diet each day to help get those numbers down and keep your cholesterol level within a healthy range.
Apples – That old saying about an apple a day is more than just folklore. The soluble fiber in the pectin is great for moving cholesterol out of your system. In addition, apples have flavonoids that provide your body with the anti-oxidants necessary to help prevent the accumulation of excess cholesterol in the bloodstream. If nothing else, have an apple as a mid-afternoon snack, and ward off the urge to munch on chips and candy bars.
Grapes – When you get a tired of apples, set them aside and try a handful of grapes instead. Grapesof all types provide fiber and various nutrients that help to break down cholesterol before it has a chance to start clogging your arteries.
Beans – Beans are a great source of vegetable protein and provide a nice source of fiber. They can be an excellent and tasty way to cut back on hamburger and other red meats that are loaded with saturated fats, and thus plenty of cholesterol. Have fun trying pintos, navy beans, garbanzos, and other beans in combination with your other favorite vegetables now and then.
Rice – Rice is a great way to get B vitamins into your diet, especially thiamin. Brown rice is a double threat to cholesterol, since the oils in the rice work with the fiber to promote a healthy system. For a great entrée, combine some dark red kidney beans with brown rice and your favorite seasonings. When paired with a sald, you have a meal that tastes great and provides plenty of nutrients.
Oats – Rolled oats are a great way to energize in the morning, since they contain complex carbohydrates. At the same time, the fiber content will make a definite impact on your bad cholesterol issue. To jazz your morning oatmeal up a bit, add some cinnamon, a spice known to help lower bad cholesterol.
Fish – If you want a steak, how about going for a salmon steak? The protein and Omega 3 fatty-acids in the steak will help you in your quest to lower your cholesterol, and give you something a little different from your usual dinnertime fare.
Eating a healthier diet doesn’t mean you have to starve or do without. It’s still possible to have the foods you love, although you will need to reduce the frequency and the size of the portions. Taking the time to include foods that are tasty and help lower your bad cholesterol will help you feel a little less deprived, and allow you to spend a few more years with your loved ones.
