The LDL cholesterol and triglycerides gets deposited in the arteries and clogs the flow of blood through the body, increasing the risk of heart diseases, strokes, and heart attacks. This article discusses some dietary changes to make if you are facing cholesterol issues. Foods to include in your diet to help lower cholesterol include:

1. Oats, barley and whole grains
Whole grains are beneficial as they contain a type of fiber called beta-glucan, and they are also low in fats, making for ideal foods in the diet of those with high blood cholesterol levels.

2. Fruits and vegetables
These are always one of the best additions to the diet for people suffering from high blood cholesterol as they are low in fats and rich in fiber. Fruits and vegetables are also great sources of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, which aid in reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke by keeping cholesterol levels healthy.

3. Nuts
There are varieties of nuts like hazelnuts, almonds, brazil nuts, cashews, chestnuts, pistachios, walnuts, and peanuts, which contain potassium, magnesium, proteins, vitamin E, and other nutrients. As nuts are also rich in fiber, they help in stopping the gut from absorbing cholesterol into the bloodstream. You may eat a handful of a mixture of nuts for snacks as they are low in saturated fats. It’s recommended to avoid salted nuts as they increase the risk of high blood pressure.

4. Soy and soy-based foods
Consumption of soybeans and other soy products has been proven to be a beneficial dietary change as these foods provide a good amount of vitamins, minerals, and proteins. At least two servings of soy a day would contribute to lowering blood cholesterol levels. Soy-based products are soy milk, soy dessert, soy meat chunks, and such, which are great alternatives to other dairy products that make for a high-cholesterol diet.

5. Fatty fish
Some fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining healthy cholesterol in the body by lowering triglyceride levels. Trout, Sardines, Salmon, and Tuna are some types of fish you need to consider as they contain the healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Following a healthy diet that is not high in cholesterol would bring about a lot of improvements in overall health and reduce the risk of heart disease. However, this change in diet should be accompanied by a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise. Avoiding smoking and the consumption of alcohol, along with all kinds of foods that would increase the bad cholesterol levels, is helpful in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels and prevent further health complications.