25 Foods that Help Lower Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance in the body that helps produce cell membranes, hormones, and vitamin D. There are two types: LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and HDL (“good” cholesterol). The liver makes all the cholesterol the body needs, but it’s also found in many animal products and processed foods. Diets high in saturated fat can raise LDL levels and are linked to heart disease, clogged arteries, and blood clots. Fortunately, while some foods raise cholesterol, others can help reduce it naturally.

1. Almonds

Rich in unsaturated fats, almonds can help raise healthy HDL cholesterol while lowering harmful LDL cholesterol. They may also make LDL less likely to oxidize — a process that contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries and restricted blood flow. Almonds are a heart-healthy snack, but keep an eye on portion size due to their high calorie count.