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Which Type of Plants Are Used for Reducing Cholesterol?

Around 105 million adults in the United States suffer from high cholesterol, and while many think prescription drugs are the only answer, several plants offer a natural way to lower cholesterol levels. Plant membranes, also called plant sterols, are particularly believed to block the absorption of "bad" cholesterol, perhaps lowering cholesterol as much as 6 to 15 percent. In addition, certain properties in other edible plants can lower cholesterol, too.

  1. Kidney Beans and Barley

    • Barley and kidney beans are full of soluble fiber, which lowers low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or what's commonly known as "bad" cholesterol. Soluble fiber, medical researchers believe, makes your bloodstream less likely to absorb cholesterol. The Mayo Clinic suggests consuming at least 5 to 10g of soluble fiber every day.

    Apples, Pears and Prunes

    • Many fruits are high in polyphenols and pectin, as well as soluble fiber, all of which may greatly help lower LDL or "bad" cholesterol. Consuming apples, pears and prunes, which are high in all three potentially cholesterol-lowing properties, is an easy way to lower LDL, according to the Mayo Clinic.

    Walnuts and Almonds

    • Full of polyunsaturated fatty acids, walnuts, almonds and some other nuts may reduce cholesterol levels, according to the Mayo Clinic. They also help maintain healthy blood vessels for overall heart health. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends eating 1 ½ oz. (about a handful) a day of almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, pistachios or peanuts. In order to be truly healthy, however, the nuts shouldn't be salted or sugared.

    Flax, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Collards and Brussel Sprouts

    • According to Gloria Tsang, M.D., writing for Health Castle, omega-3 fatty acids lower "bad" cholesterol while increasing "good" cholesterol. Although many people tend to think fish is the only source of omega-3 fatty acids, flax seeds are another excellent source of these heart-healthy fats, as are walnuts, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, collards and cabbage. Aim to eat between 2 and 4g of omega-3s each day.

    Pine

    • A study published by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations shows that sitostanol, an extract of pine needles, can lower cholesterol in rats. In response, some manufacturers now offer pine needle margarine-substitute. It's not suitable for cooking, but spreading about 2 tbsp. on bread every day may reduce cholesterol levels.

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