We all know that processed and ultra-processed foods lead to various lifestyle related diseases, including the alteration of the body’s cholesterol level. While we hear that increased cholesterol content is bad for your health, we must tell you that good cholesterol exists as well. For the inexperienced, there are two types of cholesterol: LDL (or bad cholesterol) and HDL (or good cholesterol). Excess bad cholesterol in the body creates a layer of plaque on the walls of the arteries, which leads to health problems such as cardiovascular disease. Therefore, health experts suggest correcting it with an increase in good cholesterol. And how do you do that? While exercise and a healthy lifestyle are key, food also plays a role. Let’s agree: a good diet in combination with exercise can solve most of our health-related problems.
Considering this, the celebrity nutritionist Lovneet Batra put together a list of healthy food ingredients that can help increase good cholesterol levels. Have a look:
Here are 5 healthy food options to increase the body’s good cholesterol content:
Chia seeds-
Chia seeds are considered a superfood and load you up with several essential nutrients. They are considered a good source of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and more that can help lower LDL levels in the body.
Barley-
Another healthy food ingredient, barley is a whole grain that has an adequate amount of beta-glucan, the soluble fiber that can help balance the ratio of HDL to LDL.
walnuts-
The walnut is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids which are known to protect heart health. “Thus, walnuts reduce total blood cholesterol and increase HDL (good cholesterol),” says nutritionist Lovneet Batra.
Coconut oil-
“Coconut oil has been shown to raise cholesterol levels, both good and bad. And, in truth, medium-chain triglycerides make up only a small amount of the fatty acids in coconut oil,” suggests the expert. .
Soybean-
Touted as a vegetarian equivalent to meat, soy is bursting with the goodness of unsaturated fat, fiber, and plant-based protein. “In addition, soy isoflavones increase HDL levels and if phytoestrogens reduce LDL and triglyceride levels, thus improving your lipid profile,” adds Lovneet Batra.
Now that you have the quick tips at hand, we suggest you include these dishes in your daily diet for good health. But always remember, moderation is the key.
Disclaimer: This content, including tips, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV is not responsible for this information.
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