Foods That Naturally Lower Your Bad Cholesterol

23. Eggplant: The Overlooked Cholesterol Blocker

Eggplant is a fiber-rich vegetable that doesn’t always get the credit it deserves when it comes to heart health. One of its key compounds, nasunin, is a powerful antioxidant found in the deep purple skin of eggplants. Nasunin helps prevent cholesterol oxidation, a process that makes LDL cholesterol more dangerous by promoting plaque formation in the arteries. Beyond its antioxidant properties, eggplant is packed with soluble fiber, which binds to cholesterol in the digestive system and prevents it from being absorbed into the bloodstream. This process naturally lowers LDL cholesterol levels over time, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

24. Artichokes: The Liver’s Best Friend for Lower Cholesterol

Artichokes are not just a delicious vegetable—they’re also one of the best natural foods for lowering cholesterol. They contain cynarin, a unique compound that stimulates bile production in the liver. This is crucial because bile helps break down fats and flush out excess LDL cholesterol from the body, preventing it from accumulating in the arteries. Artichokes are also loaded with fiber, particularly soluble fiber, which helps reduce LDL cholesterol absorption in the gut. Studies have shown that consuming artichoke extract or whole artichokes can significantly lower cholesterol levels over time.