Best Plant-Based Foods for a Heart-Healthy Cholesterol Diet

47. Seaweed: The Umami-Packed Marine Plant

Seaweed, a staple of Japanese cuisine, offers a distinct advantage for cholesterol management. It contains fucoidans and alginates, types of soluble fiber that have been shown to inhibit fat absorption in the gut. But its true power lies in its unique sterols, which have a similar structure to cholesterol and can compete with it for absorption. By including seaweed in your diet, you're introducing a new flavor and texture while also actively preventing cholesterol from entering your bloodstream. Try adding dried seaweed to soups or salads for a briny, umami-rich flavor.

48. Pears: The Unassuming Fiber Champion

While your list mentions apples, pears often get less attention despite being a fantastic source of heart-healthy fiber. A single pear contains a high amount of soluble fiber, particularly the kind found in its skin. This fiber creates a gel-like consistency in your intestines, which not only helps you feel full but also traps excess cholesterol, preventing it from being reabsorbed into your system. By choosing to eat the pear with its skin on, you maximize this cholesterol-lowering benefit. This simple, delicious fruit is an accessible and underrated way to support your heart.