If you have recently had blood work done and have been flagged as having high or elevated cholesterol numbers, it’s important to pay attention. Elevated cholesterol can cause massive health issues if not dealt with and brought back into normal range.

Rather than jump directly to medications its best to try and manage it though diet and lifestyle changes first.

Here are some food inclusions you can add into your daily meal plans to get your numbers down and boost your overall feeling of wellness.

LDL Lowering Foods:

Whole Grains – they are a valuable soluble fiber source and can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Oats – Oats are a great way to lower LDL.

Beans – Beans can help you feel full longer after a meal. They are a very versatile food rich in fiber.

Nuts – peanuts, walnuts, almonds, just 2 oz a day can lower LDL and help protect the heart in other ways.

Eggplant – low calorie and high fiber.

Grapes, Strawberries, apples, and citrus – These fruits all have pectin. Pectin is a water soluble fiber that lowers LDL while being rich in vitamins.

Fish – fatty fish such as salmon gives you Omega3s as well as helping to reduce triglycerides.

Fiber supplements – Metamucil daily can help boost your fiber intake and keep you regular. Keeping things moving and hydrated are key!

Exercise – getting your cardiovascular heart health improved by pumping blood through daily is needed. Walk 30 minutes every day or choose the exercise of your liking but get that heart rate up. (check with your physician before starting any exercise regimen).

Beating high cholesterol by way of lifestyle alterations can save you a world of issues that potentially come with taking statin drugs. So come see us for a nutritional consultation that will do your heart a world of good!

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