Foods That Naturally Lower Your Bad Cholesterol

Lisette Marie

43. Celery: The Crunch That Calms Cholesterol

Cut into small pieces of celery in a plate. Photo Credit: Envato @Artem_ka2

Celery is often underestimated, seen as a low-calorie snack or crunchy garnish—but behind its humble appearance lies a powerhouse of heart-protective benefits. This crisp veggie contains phthalides, a group of natural plant compounds that help relax the muscles around your blood vessels, leading to improved blood flow and lower blood pressure. Better circulation means less strain on the heart and reduced risk of cholesterol-related complications like plaque buildup.

44. Cinnamon: The Spice Rack Regulator

Close-up of cinnamon sticks and star anise on a dark, textured surface, evoking warm, aromatic flavors. Photo Credit: Pexels @Pixabay

More than just a flavor enhancer for baked goods, cinnamon holds a place in heart health as a powerful regulator of blood lipids. Its active components, particularly cinnamaldehyde, have been shown in human studies to significantly reduce total cholesterol, LDL ("bad") cholesterol, and triglycerides, while leaving HDL ("good") cholesterol largely unaffected. This effect is partly due to cinnamon’s ability to influence the enzymes involved in fat metabolism and its remarkable capacity to improve insulin sensitivity. Better insulin response helps your body manage blood sugar, which is intrinsically linked to how the liver processes and stores fat. Adding half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon to your coffee, oatmeal, or smoothie daily is a simple, delicious way to leverage this spice rack superstar for a healthier heart.

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43. Celery: The Crunch That Calms Cholesterol

44. Cinnamon: The Spice Rack Regulator

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