Overview
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in the body and is found in all cells. It has an important part to play in various vital processes in the body – but having too much cholesterol in the blood is one of the risk factors in the development of coronary heart disease. There are many risk factors for coronary heart disease, and it is important to take care of all of them to reduce the overall risk of it.Diet can play an important role in lowering your cholesterol. Here are some foods to improve your cholesterol and protect your heart.
Top foods to improve your numbers
Can a bowl of Fish help lower your cholesterol?. A few simple tweaks to your diet along with exercise might help you lower your cholesterol.Few such healthy foods includes
Oatmeal, oat bran and high-fiber foods. Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, which reduces your low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, the "bad" cholesterol. Soluble fiber is also found in such foods as kidney beans, Brussels sprouts, apples and pears.Soluble fiber can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream.
Fish and omega-3 fatty acids Fatty fish has high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce your triglycerides as well as reduce your blood pressure and risk of developing blood clots. In people who have already had heart attacks, omega-3 fatty acids may reduce the risk of sudden death.Omega-3 fatty acids don't affect LDL cholesterol levels. But because of those acids' other heart benefits, the American Heart Association recommends eating at least two servings of fish a week.
Avocados Avocados are a potent source of nutrients as well as monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs). Research suggests that adding an avocado a day to a heart-healthy diet can help improve LDL cholesterol levels in people who are overweight or obese.
How to check your numbers
Two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad" cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good" cholesterol. A cholesterol test is a blood test that measures the amount of each type of cholesterol and certain fats in your blood.Too much LDL cholesterol in your blood may put you at risk for heart disease and other serious conditions. High LDL levels can cause the build-up of plaque, a fatty substance that narrows the arteries and blocks blood from flowing normally. When blood flow to the heart is blocked, it can cause a heart attack. When blood flow to the brain is blocked, it can lead to stroke and peripheral artery disease.Lipid panel is a panel of blood tests that serves as an initial screening tool for abnormalities in lipids, such as cholesterol and triglycerides.Looking for a full blood panel test?. Use Tuhealthy App to find the cheap blood test near me.
