The basic fact that we need to understand about foods is that each ingredient works in different ways. There are specific foods that can help lower the cholesterol in your body. Some of the best cholesterol-lowering foods that you can add to your diet are as follows.

1. Barley and oats
The best choice of food that you can pick for a healthy heart is to eat whole-grain foods. In this category, barley and oats hold a higher place because they contain the soluble fiber known as beta-glucan. This is an important ingredient that plays a crucial role in lowering your blood’s bad cholesterol limits.

2. Fruits and vegetables
One of the biggest concerns associated with higher cholesterol levels is cardiovascular diseases. The best way to keep this at bay is to include colorful vegetables and fruits into your everyday diet. Most of the vegetables and foods contain highly soluble fibers, which help lower LDL cholesterol and its absorption. The best way to eat fruits and vegetables is to leave the skin on, especially in carrots and pumpkin, as you get a high source of fiber from them. You can also try to use the peel of lemons and oranges when dressing your salads.

3. Healthy fats
The best sources of fat essential for increasing the HDL cholesterol good for your blood are oily fish, seeds, nuts, olives, and avocado. Some of the best vegetable oils that you can introduce into your food are those that are vegetable-based.

4. Beans and legumes
Lentils and legumes like chickpeas are great sources of both plant-based proteins and soluble fibers. Switch your regular animal proteins to beans and legumes for bringing down the LDL cholesterol. If you are using canned legumes, then you must wash away the brine before using them for consumption.

5. Nuts
These items contain a good mix of both fibers and fats, which help keep your cholesterol levels checked. Pick a variety of nuts to eat to bring in a healthy balance of fats, and make sure that you leave the skins. Try to eat nuts that are unroasted or unsalted.

6. Soy products
Commonly used soy products are soy milk, tofu, edamame beans, and soybeans. Studies have shown how the regular consumption of soy products helps with a consistent reduction of triglycerides and LDL cholesterol. Ensure that you consume unsweetened soy milk and unflavored tofu because they are closer to the natural products.

7. Plant sterols
Some varieties of fruits and vegetables, including cereals and nuts, contain plant sterols at very low levels. Some ingredients contain added plant sterols as well. It is important to have a good balance of this ingredient as they help with cholesterol absorption.

Always remember that there is no single food that will help with the complete cholesterol reduction. The main aim of having a healthy diet is to ensure you include elements that lead to a healthier life by keeping your cholesterol checked.