- Focus on fats. But not the bad ones! Avoid saturated fats, which increase unhealthy LDL levels, and steer clear of trans fats, which both raise LDL and lower protective HDL. Instead, substitute these with unsaturated fats, like those found in fish, nuts and vegetable oils.
- Choose whole grains. Whole-grain breads, pasta and cereal help prevent a blood sugar roller coaster and make you feel full longer. Many of these foods contain fiber, which help to lower LDL levels.
- Make other healthy choices. Maintaining a healthy diet is always beneficial. Start small, like substituting fruits and vegetables during times when you want to reach for a bag of potato chips. Especially try to make healthier dairy substitutions, like fat-free milk instead of whole milk or low-fat yogurt instead of sugar-filled versions.
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough to lower your cholesterol to healthy levels, then talk with your doctor about other solutions.
Source: Harvard Health
Source: Harvard Health