Following is a low cholesterol foods list. Though we at foodsthatlowercholesterol.org advocate a balanced way of eating, one which isn’t comprised exclusively of low cholesterol foods, it is worth mentioning them here, for those who wish to jump-start their way to a healthier heart.
1. Number one on the list is vegetables. They are colorful, tasty and relatively affordable. Their caloric count is low, and their fiber and water content is high. They are rich in phytonutrients which exhibit antioxidant, pro-heart, health-giving effects, along with vitamins and minerals crucial to human health. Vitamins found in vegetables include K, E and C. Consumption of vegetables has been linked to a decreased risk of heart disease and cancer, as well as elevated blood pressure.
2. Whole grains. If you are not grain-sensitive or intolerant, consider adding more whole grains to your diet. In addition to their high fiber content, they are a source of lower-glycemic carbohydrate energy. The high fiber content prevents the absorption of unhealthy fats, and may aid in weight management.
3. Seeds and nuts. Go nuts with nuts! They can be crunchy, chewy, sweet tasting, savory, and they’re always fabulous. They’re loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, and some include vital Omega fatty acids, which promote a healthy heart and lower inflammation. Macademia nuts, while rich in fat, contain a highly beneficial essential fatty acid.
4. Add fruits to your list! Fresh fruit, the sweet-tasting cousin of vegetables, offers many of the same benefits. Antioxidants, polyphenols, fiber and energy, a bit of fresh fruit in your diet can go a long way, for your heart and your overall health.
5. Meat. Whoa! Some of you are probably saying, “Meat? But I thought meat was terrible for the heart!” Well, don’t be fooled; some meat is unhealthy – particularly, grocery-store meat, which comes from animals raised in poor conditions, eating food they were never designed to, pumped full of drugs – so certainly, avoid poor quality meat; but meat from animals raised as nature intended, eating a natural, pastured diet, actually contains a beneficial ratio of essential fatty acids, exhibiting heart-healthy, anti-inflammatory properties. Meat is an excellent source of B-Vitamins, iron and protein. Whenever possible, choose locally raised, 100 percent grass-fed and organic meat.
