Dietary Changes That Help (A Lot) to Lower 'Bad' Cholesterol

It's important to keep your cholesterol levels under control. Why is this so? When 'bad' cholesterol is dangerously high, it can increase the risk of health problems. Justine Butler, a doctor quoted in the Mirror, advised six simple dietary changes that can help lower 'bad' cholesterol. Take note!

Six dietary changes that help (a lot) to lower 'bad' cholesterol:

• Eat more plant-based foods because “they don't contain cholesterol”, explains the doctor;
  
• Avoid trans fats and limit saturated fats;
  
• Eat oatmeal for breakfast. They contain a lot of soluble fiber, which helps to reduce levels of 'bad' cholesterol by “regulating the absorption of the waxy substance into the bloodstream”;
  
• Choose whole grain cereals. “Just swap refined white bread, rice and pasta for healthier whole grain varieties,” she says;
  
• Eat more legumes. “Beans, peas, lentils and chickpeas are great for lowering cholesterol”;
  
• Eat more nuts. They can “help reduce cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar, as well as improving the balance of fats in the blood”.