Vegetables Reduce Cholesterol: Cholesterol is essential for our body, but its excess can cause serious diseases like heart disease. The good news is that by including certain vegetables (Vegetables to Lower Cholesterol) in your diet, you can easily reduce cholesterol levels. Let us know which are the vegetables that can help you in reducing cholesterol.
What is cholesterol?
First, let us know what cholesterol is and why it is important. Cholesterol is a type of fat that is produced naturally in our body. It plays an important role in cell repair and hormone production. However, when the amount of cholesterol increases in the body, it gets deposited on the walls of the arteries and increases the risk of heart diseases.
Vegetables that lower cholesterol
- Ladyfinger- Ladyfinger is rich in soluble fiber, which helps in reducing bad cholesterol (LDL). Pectin found in ladyfinger helps in removing cholesterol from the body.
- Spinach- Spinach is rich in vitamin K and folate, which prevent blood clots and keep the arteries healthy.
- Broccoli- Broccoli is rich in fibre, vitamin C and antioxidants, which help in lowering cholesterol levels and improving heart health.
- Carrots- Carrots contain beta-carotene, which prevents oxidation of cholesterol and keeps the arteries healthy.
- Garlic- Garlic contains allicin, which helps in reducing cholesterol levels and controlling blood pressure .
- Brinjal- Brinjal contains fibre and antioxidants, which help in lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart diseases.
- Tomato- Tomato contains lycopene, which prevents the oxidation of cholesterol and reduces the risk of heart disease .
- Cabbage- Cabbage contains fiber and vitamin C, which help in reducing cholesterol levels and keeping the digestive system healthy.
Other ways to lower cholesterol
- Healthy Diet- Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products in your diet.
- Exercise- Regular exercise reduces cholesterol levels and improves heart health.
- Stress Management- Practice yoga, meditation or other techniques to reduce stress.
- Quit smoking- Smoking increases cholesterol levels and increases the risk of heart diseases.
- Keep your weight under control- Being overweight increases cholesterol levels.