Tasty Foods Proven to Naturally Fight High Cholesterol

39. Ground Safflower Seeds (Linoleic Acid and Sterols)

Often overlooked in favor of flax or chia, safflower seeds are an excellent source of linoleic acid, a specific type of polyunsaturated fat shown to reduce LDL cholesterol when used to replace saturated fats. Furthermore, the ground seeds contain a high concentration of phytosterols, plant compounds that compete directly with cholesterol for absorption in the intestine. Adding a tablespoon of ground safflower seeds to your smoothie or using safflower oil in cooking (not for high heat) is a practical, direct way to leverage these unique cholesterol-blocking and LDL-lowering compounds from a non-traditional source.

40. Okra (The Mucilage Binder)

Okra offers a unique mechanism for cholesterol control via its famous, sometimes polarizing, mucilage. This sticky, gel-like substance is an extremely potent form of soluble fiber. Unlike the less-viscous beta-glucan in oats, okra's thick mucilage forms a strong physical bond with cholesterol and bile acids in the digestive tract, preventing their reabsorption and forcing their elimination. Eating okra stewed, grilled, or roasted (which reduces the sliminess) provides a distinct and highly effective non-grain-based tool for increasing the elimination of LDL cholesterol from the body.