Lower cholesterol with food

Combining specific foods may be the best natural option for lowering bad cholesterol by as much as 20 percent or more.

A recent study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that certain combinations of food were as effective as common prescription cholesterol-lowering drugs over a year’s time. Study participants ate a low-fat, plant-rich diet, called the Portfolio Diet, which included: margarine enriched with plant sterols; “viscous” fibers from oats, barley, psyllium, okra and eggplant; soy protein; and whole almonds. They also increased their consumption of legumes, and ate five to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables daily.

The study was based upon previous research that showed the cholesterol-lowering benefits of each of these food items independently.

— Source: Healthnotes Newswire