Cholesterol as such is not bad, but it is bad to have very high concentrations in the blood.. When the levels increase too much, they can obstruct the arteries and cause health problems. For this reason it is pertinent to control it and thus avoid the associated problems that can be generated in the body.
Using home remedies to keep cholesterol in adequate levels is an excellent option. It represents an alternative that must always be accompanied by a healthy diet and physical exercise. In this article you can find the best natural remedies to lower cholesterol.
- Other users have read: “Vegan recipes: 8 easy dishes for beginners”.
10 home remedies to lower cholesterol
There are several foods that among their properties have the ability to regulate cholesterol levels.. In addition to trying to integrate these foods into the daily diet, it is recommended to use them as part of home remedies to lower cholesterol.
High cholesterol levels cause problems that lead to cardiovascular diseases. For this reason it is important to keep the amount of cholesterol in the blood under control. Below are the best home remedies to lower cholesterol.
1. Green tea
Green tea reduces oxidation and is very good for fighting cholesterol.. It is one of the best drinks to protect the arteries, being an efficient home remedy to lower cholesterol. In addition, it is easy to prepare to enjoy its benefits.
To prepare green tea there are two options: prepare it with hot or cold water. If it is prepared with cold water, its properties are preserved more, but it takes longer to be ready. It is not advisable to drink more than three infusions a day, since tea contains theine (a substance similar to caffeine that stimulates the nervous system).
- You might be interested in: “The 12 types of salad (and the ingredients they contain)”.
2. Oat bran
Oat bran is one of the most powerful home remedies for lowering cholesterol.. This is because oat bran has the property of absorbing bad cholesterol, helping to eliminate it from the body.
Using oat bran as a natural remedy to lower cholesterol is very easy. It can be added in smoothies, yogurts or salads. It has a lot of fiber, so consuming it alone is not the best option, but combined with other foods it is a very good option.
3. Chlorella algae
Chlorella algae is the plant with the highest concentration of chlorophyll in the planet.. This attribute makes chlorella algae have a high nutritional value and it is also a powerful antioxidant. Additionally, it is efficient in lowering cholesterol.
This algae has the ability to eliminate toxins from the body helping to detoxify the blood and organs such as the liver or intestines. This includes the bad cholesterol that accumulates in the arteries. Chlorella algae is sold in pill or powder form, making it very easy to consume.
4. Dandelion
The dandelion flower has remarkable medicinal properties.. This plant has the ability to lower high cholesterol levels in the blood. In addition, it is a very economical and simple home remedy to prepare, making it a great option.
To consume the dandelion flower, add the dried flower in hot water and prepare an infusion. After letting it steep for a while, strain it and add a little honey. You can drink 2 to 3 cups a day.
- We recommend: “The 11 most anti-inflammatory foods (and other properties)”.
5. Soy lecithin
Soy lecithin is a product derived from soybeans.. Soy is a food that helps regulate blood cholesterol levels, and this derivative has been used on many occasions for such purposes. It can be purchased at health food stores, which sell it in granulated form.
Soy lecithin has the advantage that it is very easy to consume. It can be sprinkled on any salad or fruit. It is recommended to consume a daily spoonful of this product, but it should not be abused either.
6. Canaryseed
Canaryseed is a food capable of reducing the excess of harmful fats.. Due to this property and the fact that canaryseed is also a diuretic, this cereal is considered an ideal ally to lose weight and reduce cholesterol levels.
Canaryseed contains the enzyme lipase, one of the functions of which is the cleaning of the blood vessels. In this way, the excess of harmful fat is eliminated. To enjoy its benefits just add it to fruit and vegetable salads.
7. Artichoke infusion
Artichoke infusion is a very efficient home remedy for lowering cholesterol.. Artichoke helps to stop the formation of cholesterol from the liver. For this reason, artichoke is a great ally in reducing cholesterol levels.
To consume this infusion, boil water with artichoke leaves. After boiling for a few minutes, let it rest and add lemon juice and a little honey (to diminish its intense bitter taste). It can be taken up to 3 times a day.
- You may want to read: “8 ways to feel satiety and not eat too much”.
8. Turmeric
Turmeric is an ingredient that is used in the preparation of various dishes.. In India, the country where it originates, it is widely used to enhance the flavor of various recipes. But the properties of this plant go beyond the culinary.
This plant helps lower cholesterol levels and has many other properties and benefits for the body. To enjoy them just sprinkle its powder on any food or prepare an infusion, which can be taken more than once during the day.
9. Eggplant juice
Eggplant juice is a very good home remedy for lowering cholesterol.. Eggplant is high in potassium and vitamins B and C, so it supports cardiovascular health. It also contains powerful antioxidants such as chlorogenic acid.
To prepare eggplant juice, first peel one or two eggplants and cut them in two. Then blend them together with two or three oranges. The vitamin C in oranges is very beneficial, and the combination of eggplant and orange helps to improve cardiovascular health.
10. Flax seeds
Flaxseeds or linseed have multiple benefits.. Among its best known properties is that it helps to keep cholesterol levels low. It also has a high content of omega 3 fatty acids, an essential substance for the body.
To benefit from the health properties of flaxseed it is enough to consume it directly. It can be sprinkled on salads and fruits, as well as added in the preparation of breads.
- Artículo relacionado: “Semillas de lino: 14 propiedades y beneficios de este alimento”
Referencias bibliográficas
-
Chevallier, A. (2016). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine: 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments. DK Pub.
-
Lajusticia, A.M. (2011). Colesterol, Trigliceridos Y Su Control. Madrid: EDAF.
-
Lifshitz, F. (1997). Dietary Guidelines with Particular Emphasis on Nutritional Intake of Fat and Cholesterol. Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 16(6), 507-509.