Cholesterol is a fatty substance found in the blood. It is builds up healthy cells and maintains cell membranes. Our bodies produce cholesterol, but we can also get it from the food we eat.
It has a great number of functions, and converting the sunlight into vitamin D is one of the most essential. But, keep in mind that high cholesterol level increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
High cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia, leads to an increased risk of coronary heart disease which causes heart attacks. Proper diet, regular exercising and maintaining normal weight are the three main factors that can help you regulate cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol level starts increasing after the age of 20. Remember, you should keep an eye on your weight and introduce some healthy lifestyle and dietary habits. This will keep you safe from diseases.
Home Remedies for High Cholesterol Levels
1. Nuts
Nuts are packed with healthy monounsaturated fats, proteins, fiber, nutrients, vitamins, and antioxidants. A handful of nuts per day is quite enough to regulate your cholesterol level. Eat peanuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, pistachios, pecans, and other nuts and reduce your blood cholesterol.
Scientists have found that a quarter cup of almonds a day lowers the LDL by 4.4 percent. In addition tot his, you can also roast your almonds. Walnuts are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, and these particular nuts can help you lower your LDL by 16 percent.
Note – Avoid overeating, because nuts are pretty high in calories.
2. Oatmeal
According to health experts, oats are the ideal cholesterol buster. By consuming this food you get enough soluble fiber and beta-glucans that reduce the absorption of cholesterol and decrease its level naturally. Eat 1½ cups of oatmeal regularly and drop your LDL by 12-24%.
3. Orange Juice
Orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, flavonoids and folate. Regular consumption of 3 cups of fresh orange juice can help you reduce your blood cholesterol levels.
4. Coriander Seeds
Scientists have confirmed that coriander has the ability to decrease your total cholesterol and triglycerides. Coriander seeds have potent hypoglycemic effects, meaning they are also great for diabetics.
Combine a cup of water and 2 teaspoons of coriander seed powder. Boil the mixture for a few seconds, and strain. You can add some milk, sugar, and cardamom to taste. For optimal results drink it twice a day.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
According to some experts, apple cider vinegar lowers triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. It is quite effective in the treatment of many ailments. Stir a teaspoon of organic apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it 2 – 3 times a day. For optimal results, drink this mixture for a month.
If you don’t like the taste of this drink, you can always add some fresh orange, grape, apple juice or whatever you may prefer.
6. Honey
Honey is packed with many minerals and vitamins which make it an amazing cholesterol buster. Moreover, its antioxidants prevent the cholesterol from moving out of the blood and it also prevents its absorption into the lining of the blood vessels.
Stir a teaspoon of honey into a cup of hot water. Optionally, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or 10 drops of apple cider vinegar. Always drink it in the morning. This will help you reduce the excess fat in your body and maintain normal cholesterol level.
Alternatively, you can combine a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a cup of boiling water. Cover and leave it for half an hour. Strain and add a teaspoon of honey to the concoction. Drink it half an hour before you eat or drink anything.
7. Garlic
Thanks to its high nutritional value and unique taste, garlic has become a kitchen staple. It not only adds a great flavor to your dishes, but it is also extremely efficient in the treatment of many diseases.
Garlic has potent anti-clotting properties and together with its sulfur contents, garlic regulates cholesterol levels and reduces the formation of plaque in blood vessels and prevents any clotting that may cause heart stroke. Eat 2 – 4 cloves of garlic every day.
8. Turmeric
Turmeric has amazing wound healing properties. It reduces LDL cholesterol; hence, it can remove the plaque buildups on the walls of the arteries. Eventually, this will reduce your blood cholesterol.
Add a dash of turmeric powder while cooking. This is one of the best ways to get the recommended daily amount of this powerful herb.
You can also cook 1½ tablespoons of water, ¾ teaspoon turmeric and 2 tablespoons of previously cooked and mashed eggplant. Eat this paste with your favorite whole wheat bread and this may soon turn into your favorite snack.
9.Coconut Oil
Even though coconut oil has saturated fat, it is still considered to be one of the most effective home remedies when it comes to reducing high cholesterol. Coconut oil is rich in lauric acid known for its ability to increase HDL and improve the LDL/HDL ratio. Add moderate amount of organic coconut oil while cooking. Eat at least 1-2 tablespoons of coconut oil every day.
Note -- Never consume processed or refined coconut oil.
10. Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds are packed with minerals like potassium, iron, calcium, selenium, manganese and zinc. They are also rich in vitamins B, A and C.
The steroidal saponins, found in fenugreek seeds, can reduce the absorption of cholesterol from the fatty foods we eat. Consume 2 ounces of fenugreek seeds a day to decrease your cholesterol by 14 percent. Moreover, these seeds reduce the risk of heart attack by 25%.
Alternatively, you can consume ground Fenugreek seeds combined with some water.
Add fenugreek to salads to increase the mineral intake.
These seeds can be also added as a spice to different dishes.
