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Foods That Block Cholesterol

Being diagnosed with high cholesterol can be a scary and daunting experience. High cholesterol is a health epidemic that can be controlled naturally through eating a heart-healthy diet containing a variety of foods that block cholesterol. Eating these foods can prolong your life, cleanse your body and also reduce your risk of numerous health ailments.

  1. Types

    • There are two types of cholesterol you need to be aware of according to the American Heart Association. "Good" cholesterol, HDL (high-density lipoprotein), protects your heart so you want a high level of this cholesterol in your blood. The other cholesterol type, however, is harmful to your heart health. LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is called "bad" cholesterol, since it leads to cardiovascular disease and other health-related concerns. You need to lower this type of cholesterol.

    Significance

    • Understanding the importance of foods that can block cholesterol plays a major role in helping you take control over your health care. You can develop a heart-healthy lifestyle that will prolong your life and increase your overall health. Incorporating these heart-healthy foods into your meal plan can prevent you from being clinically medicated and decrease your chances of health ailments such as diabetes, stroke, heart disease and various forms of cancer.

    Soluble Fiber

    • Foods that are high in soluble fiber, according to the American Heart Association and the USDA, are beneficial for lowering and blocking cholesterol. Fiber helps flush out cholesterol from arterial walls into the gastrointestinal tract. Foods high in soluble fiber include whole grains, legumes, pistachios, almonds and flax seeds. Fresh peas, citrus fruits (oranges, grapefruit, lemons, limes), carrots and apples also have a high-soluble fiber content. The American Dietetic Association recommends 20 to 30 grams of soluble fiber daily.

    Plant Sterols

    • The American Dietetic Association says plant sterols are beneficial for lowering your LDL levels. They prevent cholesterol from being absorbed into your bloodstream. Plant sterols occur naturally in soy foods, healthy oils (vegetable and corn oils), whole grains, avocados and sunflower seeds. They have been added to vegetable oil spreads, orange juice, mayonnaise, snack bars and smoothies. Check food labels to locate these heart-healthy products. It is recommended you consume 2 to 3 grams of plant sterols daily.

    Considerations

    • In addition to knowing about foods that block cholesterol, there are a variety of heart-promoting herbs, supplements and beverages available. And even though you may be eating a heart-healthy diet to lower and/or block your cholesterol, the results will be defeated if you are involved in what the American Heart Association classifies as high-risk activities. These activities include smoking, lack of physical activity and tobacco use.

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