According to Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 73.5 million adults in United States have high low-density lipoprotiein or “bad” cholesterol. High LDL contributes to blocks in heart arteries, heart attacks and death.
Only less than one third of adults with high LDL have it under control.
There are many elements including genes that impact high cholesterol level. You should always check with a health care professional to determine what causes high cholesterol in your case.
In your discussion with professionals you will come across the huge impact life style changes including dietary habits and exercise has on controlling high cholesterol.
How could foods lower cholesterol?
Foods that help you lower cholesterol work in one or more of three ways.
- They contain soluble fiber that attaches to cholesterol and removes it from the body before it enters the bloodstream.
- Increase the ratio of good fats to bad fats. The ratio itself has positive health effects.
- Plant based whole foods have sterols and stanols that block the absorption of cholesterol.