43 Home Remedies for High Cholesterol

High cholesterol results when there is an increase in the blood pressure. It also results when there is an onslaught of kidney and liver diseases. The fat evident in blood is labeled as cholesterol and is put to use when you absorb the sun whilst converting it into vitamin D.  Cholesterol is also responsible for maintaining vital cell functions.

 

High and Low Cholesterol

Despite the benefits of cholesterol, having too much of it in the body is a definite health concern termed hypercholesterolemia. A cholesterol build- up among the artery wall causes heart disease.

The allowed blood cholesterol level is anything lower than 200 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter of blood). Any cholesterol level that is above 240 mg/dL is a severe health hazard. The 200 to 239 mg/dL is still considered to be fine but one must ensure the cholesterol level never rises above 240 mg/dl.

Cholesterol levels are kept in check using a test entitled a lipoprotein profile. The lipoprotein profile calculates an accumulation of VLDL, HDL, LDL and triglycerides.

HDL means high density lipoprotein which in other words refers to the way cholesterol is taken to the liver and reduced in smaller pieces.

 

Home Remedies for High Cholesterol

1. Nuts and Seeds

The best cure for over the limit cholesterol is all types of nuts. Walnuts, almonds, as well as seeds work to control cholesterol levels. Nuts and seeds work as they contain plant sterols and fibers.

The best type of nuts for cholesterol is walnuts as they not only reduce your cholesterol as well as the triglyceride levels. This provides the perfect reason to munch down on roasted nuts as often as possible. Nuts should however, not be over consumed. More whole grains and full fiber foods should be eaten.

The best way to lower your cholesterol is to make better dietary choices. A trans fat free diet works well to promote HDL (better cholesterol) and thus reduces LDL (undesirable cholesterol). Having a diet full of valuable vitamin C is another way to remedy high cholesterol.

2. Red Yeast Rice

Red yeast rice is a Chinese remedy; it is basically rice that has been fermented by the yeast. In recent times this remedy has become available in pill form. Red yeast rice has monacolins that inhibits cholesterol and thus reduces cholesterol levels.

Extreme cholesterol levels require more regular dosages of the tablet. Studies have predicted that having the yeast tablet will reduce the amount of LDL or negative cholesterol. The overuse of these supplements may be extremely harmful if used for a prolonged period of time.

Lovastatin found in the red yeast leads to certain side effects and thus a doctor’s consult is deemed necessary prior to consuming the red yeast pills.

 

3. Fish Oils

The beauty of fish such as sardines and tuna is that they are full of omega-3 fatty acids. They reduce the triglycerides evident in blood.

Fish oil must be eaten daily and thus for people who resort the vegetarian way of life, flaxseed is the best alternative to get the much needed omega-3 fatty acids. If you don’t want to take supplements, you can also simply eat more fish.

 

4. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a healthy alternative to keep cholesterol levels in check. This food possesses beneficial fibers whilst reducing vital cholesterol levels.

Have about a half a cup of cooked oatmeal or oat bran to gain the benefits of fibers and beta-glucan, If oats alone is not the best alternative add some fruits to improve the taste of the oats and gain added nutritional value.

 

5. Coriander Seeds

One such remedy that has benefits which are statistically proven is coriander. Coriander has the ability to reduce the cholesterol levels of harmful cholesterol. Coriander has been known for its hypoglycemic properties and has been used in many a diabetes treatments.

The perfect combination includes dissolving coriander seeds of a powder form in water. Allow the mixture to be boiled prior to being strained. Consume the drink regularly with added milk or cardamom to improve taste. Finely ground coriander seeds that have been roasted works just as fabulously.

6. Green Tea

Green teas are known for comprising of catechin which assists in oxidizing lipoprotein. A prior research conducted in 2007 pointed out that consuming many cups of green tea daily resulted better LDL concentration. Drink two to three cups of green tea a day to get the best results.

 

7. Onions

The beneficial onions are the red onions which as proven by scientists from Hong Kong has the ability to decrease negative cholesterol in the body thus promoting the better cholesterol levels.

Having good cholesterol leads to a decreased chance of contracting a heart disease, like angina, which can happen as a result of high cholesterol.

The red onion juice should be extracted and consumed with honey. Alternatively, a well-diced onion along with a pinch of pepper can be added to a glass of buttermilk. Drink this as often as possible.

 

8. Vitamin K2

The vitamin K2 comes in a serum form and can lower cholesterol whilst simultaneously making atherosclerosis in the arteries less. Atherosclerosis is actually the plague that builds up in the arteries making blood flow cease.  

Whilst the vitamin K1 is used to build stronger bones, K2 vitamin fosters the calcium flow in the body. Vitamin k2 works in conjunction with vitamin D. Too much calcium is also taken care of by K2. The beneficial vitamin can be found in soybeans, goose liver and soft and tough cheeses. Studies have shown that despite many Americans having low vitamin K2 in their bodies, persistent cheese eaters have more of the vitamin.

 

9. Indian Gooseberry

Indian gooseberry or in its Indian term-alma; works to foster the lessening of lipids in the serum. As per the “International Journal of Medical Research & Health Sciences”, amla has antihyperlipidemic effects.

Amla is also known for its anti-atherogenic, and hypolipidemic properties. An Indian gooseberry drink can be achieved by combining the gooseberry in a powdery form with actual dry amla in boiled water. The amla drink must be drank first thing in the morning prior to breakfast.

 

10. Treat Thyroid Defects

The heavy cholesterol problem could be linked to hypothyroidism. Once cholesterol levels have been found to be above the expected threshold, you need to request for testing of the thyroid.  Bettering thyroid related problems will lead to a decrease in cholesterol levels.

 

11. Margarine

Margarine contains a rich element entitled plant sterols that work on the cholesterol problem. With margarine, harmful cholesterol is reduced if the margarine is eaten consistently.  

A month of margarine consumption can reduce cholesterol by over ten percent. Margarines themselves are devoid of cholesterol as contain plant oils. The best way to reap the margarine benefits is to use margarine for basic cooking or to enjoy it as a spread.  

However, margarine is proven to decrease the absorption of beta-carotene. One ought to make sure that an increase in margarine intake is complemented by consuming peppers and the like.  

 

12. Astragalus

A medicinal herb used in China is astragalus. Astragalus is known for its antibacterial as well as its anti-inflammatory functions. The herb actually fights off certain stress. There are fairly little-known heart benefits of the herb, however, not enough trials to monitor this effect of astragalus has been conducted. Further research will be able to site further benefits of the Chinese remedy which may cure high levels of cholesterol and your health in general.

 

13. Quit Smoking

The toxins transmitted to the bodily organs whilst smoking can impact on your cholesterol levels. Staying clear of smoking can improve overall health.

 

14. Carrots

Carrots are packed with pectin and can reduce cholesterol levels threefold. To use this home remedy, simply add more carrots to your diet to see a positive impact on your health. Carrot juice can also be used.

15. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is known to have many health benefits. Two of its many known functions are to battle acid reflux and fight off gout. However, ACV works on triglyceride levels and partakes in overall cholesterol reduction.  

ACV can be mixed with water to formulate an easy home remedy. This drink should be drunk for about a month. The ACV content in the glass can be gradually increased. For those who are sensitive to the ACV taste, making orange or other juices can be a better taste combination.

 

16. Cat Help

Interesting research from the University of Minnesota showed that people who had pet cats hardly suffered from heart attacks in comparison to those people who did not have cats.

This striking research can be attributed to the fact that the cat’s purr is an overall remedy for muscular, tendon and other injuries. Cat’s purrs are also known to lower inflammation and provide ease from chronic pulmonary disease.

 

17. Orange Juice

Having freshly squeezed orange juice works well to reduce overall cholesterol levels. This is because orange juice is a vital source of vitamin C. Many studies and one in particular in the “American Journal of Clinical Nutrition” have stated that consuming a few glasses of this juice can increase good cholesterol whilst reducing bad cholesterol.  

Orange juice that contains sterols works far better.  This is due to the fact that phytosterols cause over ten percent cholesterol reduction.  

 

18. Hawthorn Berry

Hawthorn berries are a cure for the heart promoting an overall healthier circulatory system whilst effortlessly reducing cholesterol.  The berry’s leaves and flowers have essential healing properties.

Hawthorn berries can be taken as a powder or capsule. The ideal hawthorn dosage is thrice daily.

Alternatively, hawthorn tincture can be easily produced using soaked berries that has been allowed to ferment in brandy for over two weeks.

A berry tea is also an option by adding a few teaspoons of the berries in boiling water.

 

19. Exercise

Exercise is far too beneficial to not do. However, exercise works spritely when treating the problem of cholesterol. Research from clinics has proven that exercise has the ability to lower triglycerides as well as higher the good cholesterol.

Exercise alone, however, cannot perform all the miracles. Healthier eating is also an option to reduce negative cholesterol in the body.

 

20. Tomatoes 

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene which is probably the reason why tomatoes have a potent reddish tint. Having lycopene every day reduces cholesterol. It’s best to just eat fresh tomatoes or consume the lycopene in the form of a tomato juice. Tomatoes that have been cooked in oil works towards more lycopene absorption.  

 

21. Artichoke

Artichoke is a vegetable used as cholesterol treatment. The artichoke leaves are a rich source of cynarin. Cynarine makes more bile in the liver area which in turn reduces cholesterol in the body. Cynarine is known to unblock the arterial walls. Simply eat more artichokes to benefit from this home remedy.

22. Eat Apples

The study conducted in 2011 at the Florida State University told that ladies who consumed apples daily had lower cholesterol levels. The regular eating of apples led them to lose their weight and their harmful cholesterol. Thus clearly the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” is rather apt.

 

23. Flaxseeds

Flaxseeds contain lignans which are used to reduce blood cholesterol and in turn promotes digestion. With flaxseeds and their known benefits, it is obvious that it leads to a healthy heart. Flaxseeds contain fiber as well as omega-3 fatty acids which promote the production and absorption of cholesterol.

 

24. Rhubarb

Rhubarb defeats cholesterol like no other herb. The benefits of rhubarb are because it is known for increasing your metabolism whilst decreasing cholesterol because of its high fiber content.

Make rhubarb in a double boiler to which maple syrup and honey can be added in. To reap a taste fusion of sweetness add in some cardamom or alternatively vanilla. The rhubarb solution must be taken after a full meal.

Warning: Rhubarb does contain a poisonous chemical called oxalic acid.  Rhubarb can lead to lowering antioxidant capacity and polyphenol content. Steer clear of rhubarb if you are pregnant.

 

25. Brown Rice

Brown rice is as rich in minerals and fibers as opposed to normal white rice. That is why it’s best to serve brown rice rather than white rice to enable controlled cholesterol levels. A cup of the rice is a great source of fiber.

 

26. Barley

The best cereal available on the market after wheat cereal is barley. This cereal works to reduce the blood cholesterol levels and has beta-glucan. Beta-glucan found in barley decreases cholesterol levels by a few percent if regularly consumed. Barley can also be used to make noodles.

27.  Spinach

Spinach is a green full of lutein which works against cholesterol and prevents the blockage of bad cholesterol against the artery walls. Vitamin E is also richly found in spinach and thus prevents one from getting a heart stroke as well.

A mini meal can be made when you microwave spinach with parmesan cheese. The spinach dish can be consumed with wheat bread.

 

28. Chicory Root

Chicory root has been termed an additive for caffeine. The chicory root is another possible source of vitamin C and antioxidants. The root is known to reduce the chances of getting heart problems. The chicory leaves works well in salads.  

Warning: Stay away from the root if you are pregnant. 

 

29. Yogurt

A daily intake of plain yogurt is known to lower cholesterol. With yogurt, one has less of a chance of getting heart problems. Awash with easily digestible nutrients, it is one meal you can eat with no fear or fuss.

 

30.  Honey

Honey contains many rich minerals as well as vitamins. This home remedy is not only a cure for cholesterol but an overall ailment fighter. Antioxidants found in your blood acts to stop the cholesterol from moving out of your body stream. Also with honey, cholesterol cannot enter the blood vessels.  

The best honey remedy is made using a mere teaspoon of honey with warm water. The mixture’s taste can also be improved by combining in some lemon juice and apple cider vinegar. This honey solution must be drank daily and will get rid of any unwanted fat.

Another honey solution involves grinding cinnamon and adding to hot water. The strained solution must be left to stand before honey is added in. This must be drunk after waking up before anything else enters the tummy.

 

31. Licorice Root

The licorice root is known for its property to reduce blood cholesterol levels. Have the licorice tea regularly.

Add a piece of licorice root to boiling water. The solution must be placed on a lower heat for a few minutes. The solution is quite sweet and therefore requires nothing else to be added to make it sweeter.

Warning: The licorice root remedy is not recommended for those who suffer heavy blood pressure, have nerve problems, or possibly pregnant.

 

32. Beets

Beets have been known for the carotenoids and flavonoids which they have abundantly. Beetroots reduce the cholesterol levels and have beneficial nutrients. With potassium and nutri,ents it’s no wonder it can heal almost any illness. The best way to gain the value of beets is to have beetroot juice.

The thing about too much beet juice is that it makes the urine to come out colorized.. It also temporarily stains hands or areas that it comes into contact with.

Warning: Eating too much beetroot can lead to an internal stone problems.

 

33. Red Wine

We all know that alcohol increases your cholesterol. However, one such wine which has the power to lower cholesterol levels is the red wine. The red wine has this cholesterol reducing ability as it has polyphenol antioxidants.

Ladies, in particular, must consume wine more while men can settle on just two glasses daily.  A good alternative to the red wine remedy is pure red grape juice which has more or less the same benefits.

 

34. Turmeric

Turmeric powder is another spice known for its ability to cure almost any sickness. The turmeric can cure wounds while causing a sturdy decrease in cholesterol levels. The powder reduces the cholesterol build up.

Turmeric powder can be inserted into any basic dish to reap its benefits. The turmeric powder can also be boiled with water and some precooked and squashed eggplant. The turmeric and eggplant paste can be eaten as a spread on breads or rolls.

35. Chocolate

Chocolate has been noted to lower cholesterol.  Cocoa flavanols are common in dark chocolate and work towards preventing block artery. Having an ounce of chocolate daily will improve positive cholesterol in the body.  Also dark chocolate stops harmful cholesterol from getting stuck in the arteries.

The yummy milk chocolate is not the positive one but the dark bitter one is is considered the healthier version.

 

36. Coconut Oil

The coconut oil cure reduces cholesterol. The lauric acid evident in the oil improves good cholesterol while simultaneously getting rid of harmful cholesterol. Coconut oil must be consumed daily in its purest form to reap its benefits.

 

37. Eggplants

Brinjals more commonly referred to as eggplants, has the needed fibers to remedy cholesterol. It also has potassium, vitamin B1 along with vitamin B6. Nasunin found in eggplant promotes the flow of blood.  Have eggplant in your everyday diet when cooked or grilled.

 

38. Avocados 

Avocados are one food group that despite not possessing dietary cholesterol itself works on altering the cholesterol levels. The beneficial fats one commonly called oleic acid which promotes beneficial cholesterol in the body.

Avocado can be consumed as a dessert, savory dish or as another green in salads. The guacamole dip is also a good form to get the beneficial cholesterol from avocados.

Important: Avocado is a source of added fat and must be consumed in moderation.

 

39. Broccoli

One such green that holds anti-swelling functions as well as vitamin C. Broccoli holds valuable fibers which supplements effectively with bile acids. This combination is excreted to lower cholesterol. Have broccoli often to gain its beneficial qualities.

Try not to cook the broccoli too much so that you do not strip off all the nutritional properties. Steam the broccoli to gain its value as opposed to munching on it while it is still raw.

40. Avoid Trans Fats

Trans-fats are bad for the body. It is important to read the contents of ready foods prior to purchasing anything.  Take a look at the label to be sure of the components.

 

41. Celery

Celery is another vegetable dish that prevents the chances of contracting heart diseases. Butylphthalide present in celery assists in battling high cholesterol. Having a celery dish is an option or sipping on a celery juice can work just as well.

 

42. Olive Oil

As opposed to normal cooking oil, settle for a drop of olive oil when cooking. This oil has fats that lower cholesterol. It is vital to have about two teaspoons of the oil daily..

Consume the olive oil in salad dressings as well as a bread dip. Everyday cooking can be done using olive oil.

 

43. Mustard Greens

Mustard greens also carry out anti-swelling functions. This home remedy is packed with vitamin C and calcium which makes blood pressure normal. They also lower cholesterol in the body.  Have mustard greens daily.

 

Which of these home remedies are you most likely to try? Comment below with your response!

 

References

 

http://www.readersdigest.ca/health/conditions/10-ways-lower-your-cholesterol/

http://www.indiatimes.com/health/healthyliving/high-cholesterol-home-remedies-16-ways-to-treat-high-cholesterol-levels-236457.html

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http://naturalhomeremedies.co/cholesterol.html

http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/guide/high_cholesterol_alternative-therapies