Cholesterol is a fat found in our blood, which is essential for the body to maintain overall health. The liver produces the cholesterol that the body needs. However, consuming junk food and an unhealthy lifestyle can lead to the development of high cholesterol levels, also known as high blood cholesterol.
There are two types of cholesterol in the blood:
- HDL or high-density lipoprotein, also known as good cholesterol.
- LDL or low-density lipoprotein, also known as bad cholesterol.
Although cholesterol is essential for the body, persistent high cholesterol levels can cause cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. If your body has too much cholesterol, it will combine with toxins and other harmful substances in the blood, leading to plaque that sticks to the artery walls. Due to such accumulation, the risk of heart attacks and heart disease increases significantly.
8 natural drinks that you can add to your diet to control cholesterol:
1. Pomegranate juice
This is a natural juice rich in antioxidants, which helps reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol. Pomegranate reduces damage to blood vessels and prevents hardening of the arteries. Drink pomegranate juice without adding sugar or any other preservatives, as it will lead to excess calories.
2. Tomato juice
Tomato juice contains lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that protects your body’s cells from external damage. It helps control inflammation, heart problems, strokes, and even Alzheimer’s disease. A bowl of tomato basil soup can also help control your cholesterol levels.
3. Soybeans
Low in saturated fat, the dietary fat that increases LDL cholesterol. Replace whole milk with soy to reduce the risk of heart disease. Since soy has the highest protein content of any plant-based dairy drink, you can easily use soy in smoothies with pumpkin puree, mango, banana, prune and grape, cereal and oats or you can just drink it on its own.
4. Green Tea
This is a healthy tea that can reduce obesity and cholesterol. Green tea contains catechins that can reduce LDL cholesterol. In addition, green tea also contains Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant that helps prevent plaque in the arteries.
5. Oat Milk
Oat milk contains beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that helps reduce bad cholesterol. This substance creates a gel-like substance in the intestine and interacts with bile salts, preventing cholesterol absorption. It contains more fiber and protein than regular milk.
6. Cocoa
The main ingredient in dark chocolate is cocoa. Dark chocolate is good for the heart and improves blood pressure as well as cognitive function. Cocoa drinks contain antioxidant properties such as flavonols and high monounsaturated fatty acids that help increase your cholesterol levels. However, avoid processed chocolate as it is high in saturated fat. Choose raw, unprocessed cocoa powder that contains little or no sugar.
7. Hibiscus Tea
Hibiscus tea has powerful antioxidant properties. Free radicals cause oxidative stress that can worsen your cholesterol levels. The antioxidants present in herbal tea can neutralize these free radicals. Add one and a half teaspoons of hibiscus flowers to a cup of hot water to make tea. Cover and steep for about 5 minutes. Strain and then drink.
8. Peppermint Tea
Drinking peppermint tea increases bile production, which in turn increases the level of good cholesterol in your body.
While these 8 natural drinks to lower cholesterol can effectively improve your health, it will take time for your cholesterol levels to return to normal. If you feel unwell at any point, see a healthcare professional immediately.
