Cholesterol-Fighting Tricks That Take Less Than 60 Seconds a Day

29. Practice 60-Second Progressive Muscle Relaxation

Chronic low-grade muscle tension, often overlooked, keeps the nervous system in a low-level fight-or-flight state, spiking cortisol and cholesterol production. Implement a quick 60-second progressive muscle relaxation break. Systematically tense and then completely relax a muscle group (like clenching your fists or squeezing your shoulders) for 5 seconds each. This practice, done once or twice a day, teaches the body the difference between tension and relaxation, leading to a sustained reduction in overall muscle-related stress and a quieter, more cholesterol-friendly metabolism.

30. Snack on Unsalted Edamame (The Isoflavone Fix)

Keep a small bag of frozen, shelled unsalted edamame (soybeans) in your freezer for a quick snack. Edamame is a source of isoflavones, plant compounds that have been shown in studies to subtly improve cholesterol balance by reducing LDL. They also offer a complete protein and soluble fiber combo that aids satiety and binds cholesterol. Microwaving a handful for 60 seconds provides a warm, satisfying, low-sodium, and low-effort way to deliver unique cholesterol-lowering compounds and keep you away from less healthy processed snacks.