Foods That Naturally Lower Your Bad Cholesterol

27. Chia Seeds: Tiny but Mighty for Cholesterol Control

Chia seeds might be tiny, but their nutritional impact is enormous when it comes to heart health. These little super seeds are packed with soluble fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, making them a triple threat against high cholesterol. One of their most powerful traits is their ability to absorb up to 10 times their weight in water, forming a gel-like coating when mixed with liquid. This gel traps LDL cholesterol in the gut, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream and helping the body flush it out naturally.

28. Pumpkin Seeds: The Underrated Heart Protector

Pumpkin seeds are often overlooked, but these nutritional powerhouses deserve a spot in any heart-healthy diet. They are a rich source of plant sterols, naturally occurring compounds that help block cholesterol absorption in the intestines. These sterols work similarly to certain cholesterol-lowering medications by competing with cholesterol for absorption, ultimately reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in the body. But the benefits don’t stop there. Pumpkin seeds are also packed with magnesium, zinc, and heart-healthy unsaturated fats, all of which play an essential role in maintaining optimal circulation and preventing plaque buildup in the arteries.