Our modern lifestyle of fast food and processed meals has led to an increase in cholesterol levels and heart diseases. However, the good news is that there are plenty of foods that can help to cleanse your arteries and lower cholesterol naturally.
In this article, we will discuss the top 10 foods to cleanse your arteries and lower cholesterol.
1. Avocado
Avocado is a rich source of monounsaturated fats that can help to lower cholesterol levels in the body. It also contains fiber and plant sterols that prevent the absorption of cholesterol from food.
A study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that eating one avocado a day can reduce LDL cholesterol levels in overweight and obese adults.
2. Garlic
Garlic has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments, including heart diseases. It contains allicin, a compound that can lower cholesterol levels and prevent the formation of blood clots.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that garlic supplements can reduce total cholesterol levels by up to 7.4%.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries. They also contain soluble fiber that can lower cholesterol levels in the blood.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming blueberries for eight weeks can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 27%.
4. Walnuts
Walnuts are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids that can lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body. They also contain fiber and plant sterols that can prevent the absorption of cholesterol from food.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming walnuts as a part of a healthy diet can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 16%.
5. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great source of soluble fiber that can lower cholesterol levels and prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries. It also contains beta-glucan, a type of fiber that can reduce inflammation and improve heart health.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that consuming oatmeal regularly can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 5.3%.
6. Spinach
Spinach is a great source of vitamin K, which can prevent the hardening of arteries and reduce the risk of heart diseases. It also contains antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that consuming spinach for four weeks can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 14%.
7. Salmon
Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids that can lower cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body. It also contains niacin, a type of vitamin B that can increase HDL cholesterol levels and lower triglycerides.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that consuming salmon for eight weeks can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 4%.
8. Olive Oil
Olive oil is a great source of monounsaturated fats that can lower LDL cholesterol levels and increase HDL cholesterol levels. It also contains antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that consuming olive oil for four weeks can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 10%.
9. Broccoli
Broccoli is a great source of fiber and antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries. It also contains sulforaphane, a compound that can lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that consuming broccoli regularly can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 6%.
10. Green Tea
Green tea is a great source of catechins, a type of antioxidant that can reduce inflammation and prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries. It also contains caffeine, a compound that can increase metabolism and promote weight loss.
A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming green tea for 12 weeks can reduce LDL cholesterol levels by up to 7.2%.