Cholesterol in the blood comes from two main sources: the food we eat and what we make. Too high or too low cholesterol levels in the blood can be a very dangerous factor, often leading to a heart attack or stroke. There are many people who take statins to lower cholesterol. However, there are many natural foods that you can eat to help lower cholesterol safely and naturally without the use of dangerous statins. You may notice a substantial improvement in your cholesterol level once you start consuming these whole foods on a daily basis.

Here is a list of the top 10 natural foods to help maintain a healthy cholesterol level in the body.

1. Oat bran and brown rice bran they are the best foods to lower cholesterol. They are rich in soluble fiber, so they reduce cholesterol levels by binding fats and heavy metals.
2. Blueberries (organic) can only help lower cholesterol as effectively as statins. Berries, in general, help prevent the oxidation of bad cholesterol and are super rich in antioxidants.
3. Fish It is a good source of protein and omega 3 fatty acids, which have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol. Omega 3 fatty acids also help lower triglyceride levels.
4. Garlic It contains allicin and can have a powerful antioxidant effect. Lowers cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
5. Apples They contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. The two types of fiber in Apple are helpful in lowering cholesterol levels and in lowering the risk of hardening of the arteries, stroke, and heart attack. The insoluble fiber in Apple removes LDL from the body, while the pectin fiber in apple reduces the amount of LDL cholesterol that is produced in the liver.
6. Walnuts they are rich in fiber, phytonutrients, and antioxidants like vitamin E and selenium. Walnuts also contain plant sterols and healthy fats (monounsaturated and polyunsaturated).
7. Beans they are high in soluble fiber; lowers bad cholesterol and increases good cholesterol. Other foods rich in soluble fiber are lentils, peas, and ground flax seeds.
8. Foods with plant sterols (or stanols) are powerful phytosterols found in plant membranes that can block the absorption of cholesterol. Sterols are found naturally in various types of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, cereals, legumes, and vegetable oils.
9. Olive oil It is known to lower LDL, increase HDL, and is rich in antioxidants.
10. Soy protein –Studies show that a total daily intake of 25 grams of soy protein significantly reduces LDL cholesterol levels. Soy is high in polyunsaturated fat, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Soy products are also an excellent replacement for animal products.

Last but not least, it is important to note that cholesterol is found only in animal products, not plant foods. Therefore, eating less animal foods and more vegetables will lower blood cholesterol. If you already have high cholesterol, temporarily switching to a vegetarian diet with fish and fat-free dairy products, such as yogurt, can help lower your cholesterol levels quickly.