High cholesterol can stem from various factors, including a diet high in saturated fat, lack of exercise, smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, and genetics. Age, gender, and specific health conditions also influence cholesterol levels. Managing high cholesterol is crucial for preventing heart disease, stroke, and other related problems. A healthy diet plays a significant role in achieving this.
Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, tangerines, grapefruits, and lemons can help lower cholesterol. However, grapefruit can interact with cholesterol-lowering statin medications. If you're taking statins, consult your doctor before adding grapefruit to your diet.
Avocados
The plant sterols in avocados help block cholesterol absorption in the gut and increase its excretion. Omega-3 fatty acids in avocados also reduce inflammation and lower triglycerides. Chronic inflammation is often linked to heart problems. Triglycerides are a common type of fat in the body and food, essential for energy storage and supply. However, excessively high triglyceride levels can cause health issues. Avocados are also a nutritious food for those trying to lose weight.
Apples
Apples provide fiber and polyphenol plant compounds that help lower cholesterol. Adults with high cholesterol who eat two apples daily may experience a reduction in both cholesterol and triglycerides.
Mangoes
Mangoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, which contribute to heart health. Regular mango consumption is associated with lower dietary cholesterol intake. This fruit also contains nutrients like magnesium and potassium, which help dilate blood vessels and prevent spasms in the heart muscles and blood vessel walls, contributing to dissolving blood clots and balancing blood pressure.
Kiwis
Kiwis help manage high cholesterol thanks to their vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. The soluble fiber in kiwis can bind to cholesterol in the blood and promote its elimination.
Grapes
Grapes are rich in polyphenols, which are beneficial for cholesterol and cardiovascular health. They can improve blood lipid profiles by reducing bad cholesterol and increasing good cholesterol.
Le Nguyen (Very Well Health)
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