Natural ways to lower cholesterol
You can also take natural supplements that are developed with phytosterols. Phytosterols exist in vegetable oils with different concentrations and compositions, and rice bran oil, corn oil, and rapeseed oil have higher contents of phytosterols than other vegetable oils. Many foods are now being made and fortified with phytosterols because it’s hard to consume an adequate amount through your normal dietary habits. In fact, they have been shown to decrease total cholesterol by up to 10 percent. Phytosterols come from the membranes of plants and are a natural way to reduce cholesterol. Asparagus and pears are also sources of fiber. Eating oatmeal contains a significant amount of fiber: 1.5 cups typically has 2.8 grams of fiber. You can also get fiber from a variety of food sources, likely things you’re already eating. Men over 50 should aim for 30 grams of soluble fiber each day, while women over 50 should target ingesting 21 grams each day. Soluble fiber is known for lowering cholesterol absorption into your blood stream, while insoluble fiber can also lower blood sugar levels and decrease the occurrence of constipation. Increasing your fiber consumption by ingesting soluble or insoluble fiber has been shown to decrease cholesterol levels. The good news is that there are natural ways to help lower your cholesterol and blood pressure. Unfortunately, for many people, medications carry a range of side effects. While many physicians will recommend diet changes and increasing exercise, you are also likely to be prescribed medication, such as statins, which can help lower your cholesterol. High cholesterol and high blood pressure are damaging to your heart and arteries, and if you are affected by the silent health conditions, you’re more at risk for health issues such as heart attack and stroke.