Guilt-Free Snacks for High Cholesterol
There are two types of cholesterol in our bodies. High-Density Lipoprotein or good cholesterol is essential for the body, but health issues are a result of an increase in the Low-Density Lipoprotein or bad cholesterol levels. If you want to lower your cholesterol levels but also love snacking, this article will help you with some simple and guilt-free snacks for high cholesterol:
1. Raspberries
Raspberries have high fiber content, which reduces LDL cholesterol levels, and a cup of raspberries contains up to 8 grams of fiber. Raspberries also support proper digestion and are a guilt-free snack option for you if you have high cholesterol.
2. Peanut butter
2 tablespoons of peanut butter is sufficient to block the absorption of cholesterol in the gut! Spread it over whole-grain bread or toast and enjoy peanut butter, while also lowering cholesterol levels.
3. Soy milk
While choosing soy milk, ensure that it is the unsweetened variety. Soy milk comes packed with antioxidants, and you can use it to make your morning cup of coffee. It helps lower high cholesterol levels.
4. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are guilt-free snacks for managing high cholesterol. Simply cut them up and eat them, or add them to your salad. They are filled with potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin A and help reduce bad cholesterol.
5. Oats
Oats have beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that helps lower LDL levels in the body. It works wonders regardless of whether you have it with water or milk.
6. Pistachios
Pistachios are wonderful as they help increase HDL and decrease LDL cholesterol levels. They are rich in fiber and antioxidants, making them a guilt-free snack option for high cholesterol.
7. Pecans
Pecans have monounsaturated fatty acids that help improve cholesterol levels and are packed with antioxidants as well.
8. Baked potato
One of the best guilt-free snacks for high cholesterol are baked potatoes. They have potassium and are packed with nutrients that help prevent heart diseases. They also help lower blood pressure.
9. Avocado
Studies have found avocado to be an LDL lowering food. It can be eaten raw by peeling off the skin for its cholesterol-lowering benefits. These fruits are packed with fiber and unsaturated fats, which are also beneficial.
10. Olives
Olives are an ideal guilt-free snack option for high cholesterol if you want something light and healthy. They are nutritious, delicious, and are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids. These help lower cholesterol levels in your body, so eat some olives the next time your tummy is growling.
11. Sweet potato
Want a filling but guilt-free snack while also managing high cholesterol levels? Bake a sweet potato and have it as a snack to help lower your cholesterol levels. Sweet potato comes with fiber, beta-carotene, potassium, and fewer calories, making it an excellent choice.
12. Almonds
The best part about almonds is that they help lower LDL while balancing the amount of HDL or good cholesterol. They also reduce the risk of heart disease.
13. Apples
Research says that apples help reduce cholesterol as they have phenolic compounds in their skin. This helps promote blood circulation and also helps improve cell function.
14. Walnuts
One serving of walnuts per week is sufficient for decreasing the risk of heart disease. You can munch on some walnuts or add them to your salad instead of croutons or use them in soups.
15. Tuna
A super-food for reducing triglyceride levels, it can be eaten with tomatoes and cucumber for a healthy snack option. Tuna also helps reduce plaque formation.