What drinks help lower cholesterol?

Oat Drink

Oat drink contains soluble fiber, one of the most effective nutrients at reducing cholesterol levels. One study that looked at 24 adults with moderate cholesterol levels found that drinking 3 grams (g) of soluble oat fiber per day for eight weeks reduced total cholesterol by 5.3%, LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol by 7%, and LDL to HDL (or “good”) cholesterol ratio by 16.9% trusted Source.

A larger study that included over 100 adults with high cholesterol levels found that drinking oat drink alongside a low-cholesterol diet reduced total cholesterol by 8%, LDL cholesterol by 10% to 12%, and LDL to HDL cholesterol ratio by 20% to 25% trusted Source.

Oat milk is available at most grocery stores. You can also make it yourself by blending oats with water and straining the mixture through a cheesecloth.

Soy Drink

Similar to oat drink, soy beverages are plant-based and contain soluble fiber. Studies show that drinking soy drink can help reduce cholesterol levels.

A meta-analysis of 35 studies found that consuming soy protein was associated with a significant decrease in LDL cholesterol levels and total cholesterol levels. Soy protein does not, however, raise HDL cholesterol levels.

For best results, drink unsweetened soy milk. Sweetened soy milk contains added sugars, which can increase cholesterol levels. Soy drink is available at most grocery stores. You can also make your own soy drink by blending soybeans with water and straining the mixture through a cheesecloth.

Green Tea

Green tea is a type of herbal tea that has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including the ability to lower cholesterol levels.

A meta-analysis of 13 studies found that drinking green tea for an average of 12 weeks reduced total cholesterol by 6.3 mg/dL and LDL cholesterol by 4.9 mg/dL. Green tea did not, however, raise HDL cholesterol levels.

The cholesterol-lowering effects of green tea are likely due to the presence of catechins, powerful antioxidants that have been shown to inhibit the absorption of cholesterol in the digestive tract. Green tea is available at most grocery stores. You can also brew it yourself by steeping green tea leaves in hot water.