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Top 10 Foods That Help Control Cholesterol

High cholesterol can be managed successfully through taking an active approach to treatment. The following paragraphs will discuss the top ten foods that help control cholesterol levels.

Legumes & Soy

Legumes provide a cholesterol free source of protein, which is lacking in many modern diets. Soy products in particular are well known for providing an excellent source of protein with many heart healthy benefits.

Garlic

Onions and garlic contain powerful antioxidants and can also help control cholesterol. Crushed garlic in particular has a chemical compound that helps lower cholesterol levels.

Fish

Fish is an excellent source of protein necessary for healthy living without the bad fats. The fatty acids in fish help naturally lower cholesterol.

Almonds

Almonds contain high amounts of phytosterols, a chemical compound proven to help remove dangerous plaque from the arteries. Almonds provide an excellent source of protein and healthy fats.

Olive Oil

The consumption of healthy fats is necessary for disease prevention. Olive oil an excellent source of these good fats. The antioxidant properties of olive oil also help reduce cholesterol oxidation, keeping plaque from building up on arterial walls which can lead to heart attacks.

Flax Seeds

Flax seeds contain components called alpha-linolenic acid and lignans. Both of these compounds have been shown to prevent heart disease and have a positive effect on blood cholesterol levels. To get the most benefit from flax seeds, they should be consumed in ground or milled form.

Kiwi

Kiwi fruit contain many helpful vitamins. Of particular interest is the high level of alpha-linolenic acid which protects the heart and surrounding blood vessels.

Avocado

Avocados are rich in the antioxidants alpha-linolenic acid and oleic acid, both of which are known to assist in the control of cholesterol levels. They are also a great source of vitamin E, essential for heart health.

Strawberries

Strawberries contain phytochemicals that help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol, helping blood vessels to function better. These compounds also prevent inflammation in the heart and blood vessels.

Grapes

Last but not least, grapes contain some of the highest amounts of polyphenols and resveratrol, both of which protect against the oxidation of cholesterol as well as platelet clumping, which can lead to clogged arteries.

With the abundance of healthy food choices, it is easy to see how individuals everywhere can help protect their heart health and control their cholesterol.