High cholesterol levels can lead to a variety of health problems, including heart disease and stroke. While medication can help to lower cholesterol levels, making lifestyle changes is also important. One of the most effective ways to lower cholesterol is to adopt a healthy diet. Foods that are high in fiber and low in trans fats, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, help to remove excess cholesterol from the body. The good news is, that there are also delicious natural drinks that can help lower cholesterol and get the job done.
The effects of antioxidants on cholesterol levels
The common theme amongst these drinks is that they are all rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are known for their health-promoting properties, helping to protect the body from harmful toxins and free radicals. Besides that, they also play a role in lowering cholesterol, by reducing the amount of Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol in the body.
These drinks are all-natural and can be easily incorporated into your diet. Keep reading to learn about 10 of the best drinks to help lower your cholesterol. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy these tasty beverages while also improving their health?
10 Best Drinks to Help Keep Cholesterol Levels in Check
1. Pomegranate juice
Drinking pomegranate juice has been shown to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels. In a study published in the International Journal for Vitamin and Nutrition Research, participants who drank pomegranate juice daily for 8 weeks saw a significant decrease in their LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels.
Pomegranate juice seemed to work by inhibiting the absorption of cholesterol from the intestine. Additionally, the juice was found to increase High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) levels. This is important because HDL (“good”) cholesterol helps to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood and prevent it from buildup in the arteries.
Pure pomegranate juice has a multitude of other benefits, like antioxidant properties which have been shown to protect against heart disease.
2. Cocoa drinks
Cocoa drinks are becoming increasingly popular as a way to help lower cholesterol. Cocoa contains antioxidants called flavanols, which have been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol and raise HDL cholesterol levels. In addition, cocoa flavanols can help to improve the elasticity of blood vessels, making them less likely to be damaged by high cholesterol levels.
As a result, drinking cocoa regularly can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. While all cocoa drinks will contain some flavanols, those made with dark chocolate or raw cocoa powder will have the highest levels.
There are many different types of cocoa drinks, but some of the most popular include hot chocolate, cocoa, and chocolate milk. For the greatest health benefits, try to choose a cocoa drink that does not contain added sugar and fat.
3. Cranberry juice
Cranberry juice has been shown to help lower cholesterol in several studies. One study, published by the University of East Anglia (UK) found that cranberry juice was effective in lowering total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels in cognitively healthy adults.
The mechanism by which cranberry juice lowers cholesterol is not fully understood, but it is thought to be due to the high levels of antioxidants present in the juice. Cranberries are also a good source of fiber, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels.
4. Tomato juice
A glass of tomato juice a day may keep the doctor away. The active ingredient in tomatoes, lycopene, is a powerful antioxidant that helps to reduce LDL cholesterol. Lycopene is also thought to help protect against other diseases, such as cancer. While lycopene is found in other foods, such as watermelons and pink grapefruits, studies have shown that it is more easily absorbed by the body when it comes from tomatoes. So, next time you’re looking for a way to lower your cholesterol, reach for a glass of tomato juice.
5. Grape juice
Grape juice is rich in polyphenols, which are compounds that have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels. One study of healthy men found that those who drank concord grape juice twice daily for a month saw a significant increase in HDL (“good”) cholesterol levels.
Grape juice appears to work by inhibiting the production of LDL cholesterol in the liver and by helping to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood. Grape juice also helps to prevent the formation of blood clots, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes. When it comes to heart health, grape juice is a simple and delicious way to help lower cholesterol.
That said, grape juice can be high in sugar and might not be suitable for diabetic patients.
6. Citrus juices
Citrus fruits are well known for their high Vitamin C content, but they can also help to lower cholesterol levels. Citrus juices contain a compound called hesperidin, which helps to reduce LDL levels. In addition, citrus juices can help to increase levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is the “good” type of cholesterol. As a result, regularly drinking citrus juice can help to improve your lipid profile.
While any type of citrus juice can be beneficial, grapefruit juice is especially effective at lowering LDL cholesterol. So next time you’re looking for a way to improve your health, reach for a glass of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice.
Other than grapefruit juice, the different types of citrus juices include orange juice and lemon juice.
7. Oat milk
Oat milk is a type of dairy-free milk that is made from oats. Oat milk contains beta-glucans, which are a type of soluble fiber that has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels. In addition, oat milk is a good source of calcium, which is important for maintaining bone health. Oat milk can be used in place of cow’s milk in most recipes.
While there is no definite proof that oat milk can lower cholesterol, it certainly doesn’t hurt to try incorporating it into your diet if you’re looking for ways to improve your cholesterol profile.
8. Soy milk
Soy milk is a popular plant-based alternative to cow’s milk. It is made from soybeans that have been soaked and ground, and then typically enriched with vitamins and minerals. Soy milk contains a variety of compounds that may offer health benefits, including isoflavones and saponins. Some research suggests that these compounds may help to lower cholesterol levels.
The exact mechanism by which soy milk may help to lower cholesterol is not fully understood, but it is thought to be due to the ability of isoflavones in soy milk to block the absorption of cholesterol in the gut. Like Oat milk, Soy milk is a delicious and healthy alternative to cow’s milk.
9. Red wine
Researchers have long noted the potential health benefits of red wine, but the exact mechanism by which it lowers cholesterol has been unclear. A new study, however, has shed some light on the matter.
The study, which was conducted on rats, found that a compound in red wine known as resveratrol helps to improve the function of LDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in the arteries and lead to heart disease. The study found that resveratrol helps to prevent LDL cholesterol from being oxidized, which is a key step in the development of heart disease. Resveratrol is found in grapes, therefore other alcoholic beverages such as beer and spirits do not appear to have the same effect on cholesterol levels.
That said, too much alcohol can hurt your health so moderate consumption of red wine is recommended.
10. Green tea & black tea
Green tea & black tea have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels in a number of ways. Tea contains catechins, which are compounds that have been shown to reduce bad cholesterol levels and promote good cholesterol levels. Finally, green tea has also been shown to improve the lining of the arteries, which can help prevent the build-up of plaque that can lead to heart disease. Taken together, these effects make green tea an effective tool for maintaining heart health and preventing cardiovascular disease.
What is the best home remedy for high cholesterol?
Many people are looking for natural ways to lower their cholesterol. While there are many different home remedies that claim to be effective, it can be difficult to know which ones are backed by scientific evidence. One popular home remedy for high cholesterol is garlic. Garlic has been shown to reduce LDL levels and prevent the formation of plaque in the arteries. Oatmeal is another heart-healthy food that can help to lower cholesterol levels and improve cardiovascular health. While there is no single cure for high cholesterol, these home remedies may help to improve your cholesterol profile and reduce your risk of heart disease.
How do I flush out my cholesterol?
While there are many factors that contribute to high cholesterol levels, diet plays a significant role. Foods that are high in saturated fats and trans fats can increase cholesterol levels, while foods that are high in fiber can help to lower them. Making simple dietary changes can have a big impact on cholesterol levels. For example, swapping out butter for olive oil or margarine, eating more whole grains, and including plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet can all help to reduce cholesterol levels.
Another simple change that can make a big difference is to increase your fiber intake. Fiber helps to bind to cholesterol and remove it from the body. Foods that are high in fiber include oats, beans, lentils, bran, and fruits and vegetables. In addition to adding more fiber, you can also help to flush out your cholesterol by eating plenty of water-soluble vitamins. These vitamins (such as vitamin C and the B vitamins) help to encourage healthy cholesterol levels and maintain the structure of blood vessels.
In addition, regular exercise can also be beneficial. By making small changes to your lifestyle, you can help to flush out your cholesterol and improve your overall health.
