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

35. Snack on Unsweetened Dried Mango (Lutein and Antioxidants)

Switching your dried fruit snack to unsweetened dried mango offers a distinct anti-plaque benefit. Mango is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, carotenoid antioxidants that are known to protect cells. More crucially, studies show the specific antioxidants in mango are very effective at protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidation—the chemical change that makes LDL "sticky" and dangerous enough to form arterial plaque. This simple swap provides potent protection against the quality of your LDL.

36. Practice Calf Muscle Pumps (Vascular Flow Hack)

Incorporate a 30-second calf muscle pump every time you stand up from a long period of sitting. While standing, slowly rise up onto your toes, hold, and then lower your heels down 5-10 times. This rhythmic contraction acts as a "secondary heart" in your lower body, forcing pooled blood back toward the heart. Improved circulation throughout the day ensures better vascular health and helps clear inflammatory byproducts, reducing the stagnant conditions that encourage plaque accumulation in the lower extremities.