If potato chips were healthy for you, a lot more people would not be searching for dietary advice. People love to snack, though, and chips are highly addictive. With this recipe, we are aiming to give snackers a more nutritious option to satisfy their salty, crunchy cravings. Air fryer peas are seasoned perfectly and easy to prepare. They won’t last long if you have people over, so make sure to hide them for yourself or make extra.

Unlike a bag of chips, these air fryer peas are only good for about three to four days, so long as you store them in an airtight container. That is because they do not contain preservatives, flavoring agents, excess sodium, and other ingredients that extend their shelf life. Should you have specific seasonings that you want to use instead of the ones listed in the recipe, feel free to do so. For example, you can use chili powder, a squeeze of lime juice, and sea salt if you want a chili lime seasoning. You can also keep it simple and only season the peas with sea salt and black pepper.

A lot of people neglect green peas, and we don’t know why. They have classically been the vegetable in frozen TV dinners, cafeteria lunches, and other similar meals. People just leave them and focus on the other components of the meal. They happen to be rich in vitamins A, C, and K, folate, manganese, fiber, thiamine, protein, and polyphenol antioxidants. Because they are rich in both fiber and protein, they help fill you up and curb cravings. By snacking on these, you may realize that you don’t need to eat the entire batch because they actually fill you up, unlike chips.

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Everyone loves a good snack, especially chips. In fact, it is pretty difficult to no reach your hand in an open bag of chips and grab a handful. If the bag is not open, the temptation to open it is potentially the most powerful force in the universe. While that may or may not be true, one thing is for certain: chips are highly addictive, but they typically contain problematic ingredients. We always want our cleansers to have access to various entrees, desserts, and snacks, especially, to help them power through their cleanses. Enter the dehydrator!

Why should you dehydrate instead of fry? Well, dehydrating preserves a food’s natural integrity, while simultaneously enhancing its shelf life without introducing harmful byproducts. That ultimately makes a dehydrated snack a cleaner, healthier preparation method than frying. Dehydrating at low temperatures gently removes a food’s water content, helping it retain as many vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and fiber as possible. In contrast, frying (especially at high heat) can kill nutrients and create harmful compounds like trans fats and oxidized oils.

So what makes these dehydrated carrot chips so special? Well, carrots are a vibrant, nutrient-dense root vegetable that can help support eye health, as it is rich in beta-carotene. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, which helps promote clearre vision, more radiant skin, and a stronger immune system. Additionally, their high fiber content aids digestive function, supporting gut health and helping the body eliminate waste efficiently. The natural compounds in carrots may help balance blood sugar levels and support heart health by contributing lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol levels.

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If you are looking to incorporate lighter, fresher ingredients into your daily diet, this is a great recipe to have in your back pocket. The sweet, tangy, and refreshing flavors exemplify springtime. It is a zesty combination of ingredients, one of which does not receive the credit it should. We are, of course, talking about the watermelon radish. It is the star of the show in this salad, providing a crisp and slightly sweet flavor with a beautifully striking pink color that contrasts the rest of the ingredients.

Unlike a traditional radish, which is also in this salad, the watermelon radish has a mildly sweet flavor, although it does have a slight peppery kick. Not only is watermelon radish visually stunning, but it is also a nutritional powerhouse. It contains significant amounts of vitamin A, as well as vitamin C, both of which act as antioxidants in the body. Watermelon radish is also a great source of potassium, a mineral that works to regulate blood pressure and support heart health. Surprisingly, this little pink radish is a rich source of fiber, which helps regulate bowel movements and aids digestives function. A diet rich in fiber can also help control blood sugar levels, support weight management, and lower LDL cholesterol levels.

With ingredients like watermelon radish in the mix, it would be a crime to refer to this recipe as a simple salad. That said, it is very easy to make. You don’t want to end up with large chunks of watermelon radish, as it can be quite laborious to chew. For this reason, use a mandoline slicer to create even, thin slices. You can also use the mandoline for the regular radish, but be careful not to cut your fingers.

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A lot of people think that oranges are the best sources of vitamin C. While oranges and other citrus fruits tend to receive a lot of attention for vitamin C, other sources, including Brussels sprouts, kiwis, and peppers, have a higher vitamin C content. In fact, one cup of Brussels sprouts contains 85 milligrams (mg) of vitamin C, which covers the needs of most adults. Although Brussels sprouts are highly nutritious, they are not the only vitamin C superstars.

What Is Vitamin C?

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid in supplement form, is an essential vitamin that you have to get via your diet. The human body does not make any vitamin C on its own. It is a water-soluble vitamin that acts as an antioxidant in the body. That means that it can support cellular health, healthy aging, and support immune function. Although supplementing is an option, you can easily find vitamin C in many fruits and vegetables. The following fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin C, so eat up!

Guava

Guava happens to be one of the richest dietary sources of vitamin C. One small guava contains 228 mg of vitamin C, which is more than double the amount you need in a day. Guava also provides fiber, which aids digestive health and promotes feelings of fullness. The high potassium and soluble fiber levels may also aid blood pressure management and reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol levels. You can eat guava on its own, blend it into smoothies, incorporate it into desserts, or even sauces for savory dishes. 

Red Bell Peppers

Although they don’t contain as much vitamin C as guava, raw red bell peppers are excellent sources. Red bell peppers contain almost double the amount of vitamin C as Brussels sprouts, offering 121 mg per cup. In addition to the vitamin C content, red bell peppers offer valuable carotenoids, which act as antioxidants to support cellular health and skin integrity. Lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, which are the carotenoids in red bell peppers, work to protect the retina against age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. Just like the other foods in this article, the high vitamin C content aids the absorption of iron from plant-based foods. 

Kale

Kale is a valuable leafy green that offers more vitamin C by weight than Brussels sprouts, especially if you enjoy it raw. Not only does kale offer 23.4 mg of vitamin C per cup, but it also offers vitamin K (70% of the daily value per cup), magnesium, and other plant compounds that support heart and bone health. Kale is also rich in sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol, two compounds that help block cancer growth at a cellular level. Just like red bell peppers, kale also provides lutein and zeaxanthin, making it a great vegetable for eye health. 

Broccoli

Just like kale, broccoli provides a healthy amount of both vitamins C & K. In a cooked cup, broccoli provides over 90% of the daily value of vitamin C and about 92% of the daily value of vitamin K. Broccoli is also a close relative to Brussels sprouts and offers fiber, potassium, and antioxidants that work to fight inflammation and aid LDL cholesterol reduction. Studies suggest that it is better to eat broccoli raw or lightly steamed to maximize your benefits, as overcooking can destroy myrosinase, a valuable enzyme needed for sulforaphane production.

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Working out is many things: exhilarating, fun, challenging, and it provides a long list of health benefits. What is not so enjoyable is the post-workout soreness that you experience after an intense workout session. Perhaps you joined a Pilates studio or you recently started hiking more seriously. If so, then you are familiar with the pain that can permeate your limbs the next day, but as unpleasant as the pain may be, sore muscles are quite normal after working out. 

The official term for this post-workout muscle pain is “delayed onset muscle soreness.” You can typically start to experience this pain a few hours after you finish your workout. That is especially true if you don’t exercise regularly, or if you haven’t done so in a long time. Trying a new workout routine, circuit, or even a new move can cause post-exercise muscle soreness. 

How To Alleviate This Pain

One of the easiest ways to help ease the pain is by using a foam roller, which is a cylindrical device made of foam. Depending on the type of foam roller, it can be softer or harder. Some of them vibrate to add a percussive massage element, while others are extra firm and textured, which enhances the intensity. These rollers help loosen tight muscles, getting rid of knots and reducing muscle soreness in the process. 

You can roll any area of the body that experiences pain or discomfort. The different lengths, shapes, and densities make the recovery fully customizable to your needs. Good foam rollers can be expensive because cheaper materials will dent or lose firmness over time. Invest in a quality foam roller to experience the following benefits. 

Localized Pain Relief

By using foam rollers or massage guns, you can target specific portions of a tight muscle. Doing so can provide near instantaneous relief, even if the area is extremely sore or tender. If you have experienced localized pain relief in an area due to stretching, you can expect a bigger benefit from foam rolling instead. The foam roller not only works to stretch the muscle, but also targets the sore area of the muscle belly. As long as you apply the proper amount of pressure and avoid a direct pressure point on bony structures, you can experience relief. 

Improved Passive Range Of Motion

Foam rolling is a form of self-myofascial release that can help improve flexibility and muscle recovery. Since foam rolling loosens the muscle fibers, you can expect a direct improvement in flexibility following your session. By foam rolling, you can improve localized range of motion by 10-15% temporarily. That is more important for people who regularly engage in activities that require a large range of motion. That said, it is equally beneficial for people who need help maintaining day-to-day activities. 

Improved Mobility 

There is a difference between flexibility and mobility. Although the two are related, they are not the same. Improving passive range of motion through flexibility training has a direct affect on your ability to move through larger ranges of motion (mobility). Foam rolling directly improves mobility as a result of improving passive range of motion. 

Increased Blood Flow

One study reported a 75% increase in total blood flow to an area directly after foam rolling. Not only does improved blood flow enhance recovery of the affected tissues, but it also helps prepare the body for movement or activity. This can help reduce delayed onset muscle soreness when applied post workout or after a strenuous activity. 

Accelerated Recovery From Strenuous Activity

By improving blood flow to the area and reducing inflammation, foam rolling can help muscles recover more quickly after engaging in strenuous activity. Foam rolling is also relaxing, and the enjoyability of a recovery tool is extremely crucial, as it makes you want to do it more often. Various studies confirm that foam rolling after strenuous activity increases anti-inflammatory proteins and reduces pro-inflammatory proteins. That results in less inflammation and aids recovery.

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If you have the time and ability, skip the store bought version and make your own hemp milk. Not only is it free of emulsifiers, added sugars, and thickening agents, but it also tastes more delicious than store bought varieties. Hemp seed milk is a great plant-based milk to make, exhibiting a creamy texture and pleasant flavor. It goes great in smoothies, chia pudding, or with granola. Plus, hemp milk is a great option for people with nut allergies. It also happens to be less allergenic than cow’s milk.

Think of hemp seeds as tiny, tasty powerhouses. Hemp seeds are one of the six best seeds that you can eat, according to researchers. They are crunchy, slightly sweet and nutty, and despite their name, they are technically nuts, just not tree nuts. If you have a peanut allergy, then you are safe to eat hemp seeds. Hemp seeds also offer an impressive nutritional profile, with three tablespoons offering:

• 166 calories
• 2.5 grams (g) of carbohydrates
• 14.5 g of fat
• 0 milligrams (mg) of cholesterol
• 9.5 g of protein
• 1 g of fiber
• 5 mg of sodium

They also happen to be rich in the following vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin E
• Iron
• Zinc
• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Phosphorus
• Omega-3 fatty acids

Hemp seeds offer high amounts of omega-3s and antioxidants, both of which may help to lower blood pressure and protect against free radicals. The fatty acids in hemp seeds may also reduce the effects of prolactin, a hormone that contributes to PMS symptoms and breast tenderness. Most importantly, hemp seeds contain both soluble and insoluble fiber. Most Americans do not consume enough fiber in their daily diet, so adding hemp seeds and hemp milk to your diet could help you meet your daily fiber needs.

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Fiber is the nutrient everyone knows they need, and yet most people manage to not meet the recommended daily intake (RDI). Today’s Western diet lacks a lot of fiber, and the average American consumes less than 50% of the RDI of fiber each day. That is a big deal when you consider that high-fiber foods support heart and digestive health, guarding against conditions like diverticulitis, heart disease, obesity, and so much more. 

There are certain diets that prioritize fibrous foods, but you don’t have to adhere to a specific diet to eat more fiber. You can eat a balanced diet and add more high-fiber foods to your meals. Which foods are rich in fiber, and how can you be sure that you are getting enough? The general recommendation is to consume 25 to 28 grams of fiber per day for women, and 31 to 38 grams for men. 

The more consistent you are with your fiber intake, the likelier you are to stay at a healthy weight. Additionally, following a high-fiber diet can help maintain healthy blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Continue reading to learn about great high-fiber foods you can easily add to your diet. 

Black Beans

Black beans provide 15 grams of fiber per cup of cooked, mature black beans. They also provide a lot of protein and a diverse mix of flavonoids and antioxidant compounds that help to fight free radicals. Black beans also offer magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, folate, and thiamine. 

Chia Seeds

They may be small, but their nutritional profile is mighty! Chia seeds are high in fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and other essential nutrients that help support energy, healthy digestion, and brain function. Offering nine grams of fiber per ounce, chia seeds are excellent high-fiber superstars to include in your diet. They also offer calcium, phosphorus, protein, omega-3s, and manganese. Some people are sensitive to chia seeds, the same way they are to legumes, so increase water intake to help minimize bloating and other related symptoms when you eat them. 

Oats

Oats actually contain a special type of fiber called beta-glucan, which may help lower harmful LDL cholesterol to prevent plaque buildup in the arteries. They are also rich in protein, iron, manganese, thiamine, selenium, magnesium, and zinc. Just one cup of oats provides 8.2 grams of fiber. Ideally, you should opt for steel-cut or rolled oats that are free of added sweeteners and flavors. That means no flavored oatmeal packets!

Chickpeas

Chickpeas happen to be one of the best sources of dietary fiber, offering 12.5 grams of fiber per cup of cooked chickpeas. They offer a diverse mix of essential nutrients, especially manganese (satisfying 84% of the RDI). Chickpeas also contain omega-3s, omega-6s, folate, copper, protein, and folate. 

Artichokes

These low-calorie vegetables happen to be rich in fiber and other essential nutrients. One medium artichoke supplies nearly 50% of the RDI of fiber for women and a third for men. Notable nutrients include vitamins A, C, E, B, and K, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. You can steam, bake, or boil artichokes and season them with lemon juice, olive oil, herbs, spices, and red onion. Spinach artichoke dip is not a healthy way to eat artichokes, in case you were wondering. 

Acorn Squash

Winter squash varieties, such as acorn squash, butternut squash, and pumpkins, are excellent sources of beta-carotene, among other nutrients. Their signature orange flesh is rich in soluble fiber, which slows the rate at which the body digests food, allowing for maximum nutrient absorption. In addition to offering nine grams of fiber per cup, acorn squash also offers vitamins A, B6, and C, magnesium, folate, potassium, thiamine, and manganese. 

Durian

This is not the most popular fruit in America. It is very strange looking and you either love it or hate it, as both the smell and flavor can be very off-putting to many people. That said, it is very nutrient-dense, offering an impressive amount of healthy fats. Because of that, it is higher in calories than most other fruits. It is similar to avocados in that way. Durian offers 9.2 grams of fiber per cup, and also contains vitamin C, potassium, manganese, and some B vitamins. 

Coconut

With a low-glycemic index, coconut is great to incorporate into your diet if you are watching your blood glucose levels. Coconut flour contains four to six times the amount of fiber as oat bran, and coconut meat itself offers 7.2 grams of fiber per cup. Coconut meat is also rich in selenium, folate, manganese, and omega-6s. Make sure to buy desiccated coconut instead of sweetened coconut flakes, as the latter version is very unhealthy and comes with no nutritional benefits. 

Almonds

Nuts, like almonds, are great sources of protein, healthy fats, and fiber. Almonds are lower in calories and fats compared to most other nuts, though. They do offer 11.5 grams of fiber per cup, though. They also offer impressive amounts of magnesium, protein, riboflavin, manganese, and vitamin E. You can enjoy them as a snack or blend them into sauces or energy bal recipes. 

Raspberries

Raspberries contain a lot of manganese, which helps support healthy bones, skin, and blood sugar. Because they are so easy to eat, as they are slightly tangy and sweet, they rank high on the list of high-fiber foods for children and adults. They offer eight grams of fiber per cup, in addition to other nutrients like vitamins C and K and manganese.

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Sleep is essential for your overall health, but you may not feel well-rested if you have obstructive sleep apnea. That is true even if you sleep for more than eight hours a night. Obstructive sleep apnea causes repeated pauses in your breathing, so your brain wakes up for a little to reopen your airway. That repeated pattern of sleep interruption, which can last 10 seconds or longer and occur at least five times per hour, can limit your ability to get restful sleep. 

There are many factors that worsen symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, especially weight gain. Eating healthier foods can help people with obstructive sleep apnea manage their weight. There are also certain foods that contain nutrients that may help people with obstructive sleep apnea improve sleep quality and ease symptoms. Continue reading to learn what those foods are. 

Nuts

Almonds, pistachios, walnuts, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts, and other nuts can help support heart health, reduce inflammation, and manage weight. They may also improve sleep quality, and those benefits can be attributed to the following nutrients:

• Protein and fiber help you feel full, which can make it easier to maintain a healthy body weight. 
• Vitamin E is an antioxidant that exhibits anti-inflammatory activity. Vitamin E may also be helpful with obstructive sleep apnea, since they tend to have higher levels of inflammation and oxidant compounds. 
• Magnesium works to relax muscles and can help promote better sleep. 
• Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle, eating melatonin-rich foods may help people get more restful sleep on a consistent basis. 

Berries

Nighttime pauses in breathing that results from obstructive sleep apnea can reduce oxygen levels. That can lead to a state of oxidative stress over time, during which there is an overabundance of cell-damaging compounds in the body. Oxidative stress can also increase the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cognitive issues. Berries are rich in antioxidants that help reduce that inflammation and fight the free radicals that lead to oxidative stress. They also contain a lot of fiber, which helps you feel full for a while, supporting weight management. Great berries to consume include strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries. 

Leafy Green Vegetables

The combination of low oxygen levels and higher oxidative stress can lead to inflammation, which worsens symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. Leafy green vegetables, such as kale, spinach, Swiss chard, and collard greens, contain compounds that may help reduce inflammation. Reducing inflammation and swelling in airway tissues may lead to better sleep. Leafy greens also provide magnesium, which works to relax muscles and support better sleep quality. Leafy greens are also low in calories and high in fiber, two things that support healthy digestion and weight management, which may help improve symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. 

Whole Grains

People with obstructive sleep apnea can benefit from weight loss, but it can be hard to do that without eating a balanced diet that contains fiber-rich foods. Whole grains work to support healthy digestion and keep you feeling full for longer. The fiber also helps you keep your blood sugar steady, which may support better sleep and limit inflammatory markers, both of which are essential for obstructive sleep apnea. Fiber-rich whole grains to consume include brown rice, bulgar wheat, oats, and quinoa. 

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Whether you know it or not, the things you do in the morning have a big impact on your blood sugar. Glucose, or blood sugar, levels rise when you wake up because of natural hormonal shifts in the body that help you feel alert. Certain habits, such as not moving, skipping fiber, or starting the day with sugary drinks, can cause blood sugar spikes. Dietitians claim that the very common mistakes in this article increase blood sugar levels. We also offer advice on how to correct those morning mistakes. 

Skipping Breakfast

People who adhere to intermittent fasting, which limits food intake to certain hours of the day, can benefit from skipping breakfast. According to research, though, extended fasting can increase cortisol secretion and alter its daily rhythm. Stress hormone levels may stay elevated for a longer time, which can increase blood sugar. Waiting to eat until you are overly hungry can cause overeating or increased cravings throughout the day. Some people with insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, or those who notice energy crashes later in the day should be cautious about skipping breakfast. 

If you feel like skipping breakfast causes feelings of tiredness or increased cravings, try to eat no more than one to two hours after you wake up. If you are intermittent fasting, make sure that your first meal is nutrient-dense, containing fiber, protein, and healthy fats.

Not Planning Ahead

If you rush in the morning from the moment you wake up to the second you get to work, you are more likely to skip meals and grab an unhealthy, convenient option. Ideally, you should plan to have breakfast ready in the fridge, so it is ready when you wake up. That makes it much easier to prioritize fiber and protein. Set time aside in the evening to prepare simple meals, such as egg bites, overnight oats, or chia pudding. You can even prepare make ahead smoothie bags!

Being Sedentary

Smartphones, tablets, and laptops have made it incredibly convenient to remain in bed or sit down scrolling social media or checking emails. Research confirms that being sedentary in the morning can lead to higher glucose levels, especially if you eat a pastry at the same time. A sedentary morning means that your active muscles use glucose for energy. A short amount of activity, even a 10-15 minute walk, a yoga session, light stretching, or squats and push-ups, can significantly improve blood glucose levels. Try to incorporate light movement into your morning routine. Even 10 minutes of bodyweight exercises can set the tone for the rest of your day. 

Drinking Coffee Before You Eat Anything

There are people with cups, shirts, or signs that say things like “coffee first” or “don’t talk to me before coffee.” For some people, drinking coffee on an empty stomach only adds to the body’s natural morning rise in blood glucose. Cortisol, as we mentioned earlier, is a stress hormone that naturally increases in the morning to help the body wake up. It signals the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream, but caffeine only intensifies that process. If you have insulin resistance and drink coffee before eating food, glucose can remain elevated for a lot longer than normal.

It is better to enjoy your coffee with protein-rich foods, such as Greek yogurt, nuts, oatmeal, or eggs. You can even enjoy a fruit and vegetable smoothie with protein powder, or mix a little protein powder into your coffee. Just be mindful that the flavor of your powder matters when mixing it into coffee. 

Eating Carbs Without Fat, Fiber, Or Protein

A muffin or plain toast is very convenient to eat in the morning, but the body digests those refined carbs very quickly. The body’s quick digestion of those refined carbs can cause a rapid rise in blood glucose and then an inevitable crash. That back and forth swing can trigger cravings, a cycle of inconsistent energy, and fatigue. Refined carbs are naturally low in fiber, which you can find in foods like fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Fiber is one of the best nutrients you can eat to stabilize blood sugar. Protein and healthy fats also slow the rate at which the body digests carbs, which can help control spikes. 

Try your best to avoid refined carbs altogether and focus your efforts on protein-rich and fiber-dense meals. Try to consume oatmeal and chia pudding with berries or Greek yogurt with nuts and seeds. There are many other meal options that include healthy fats, protein, and fiber. Search the internet and find recipes that inspire you!

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Statins are prescription drugs that people take to lower their levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol. Health experts refer to LDL cholesterol as “bad” because of the fact that it builds up inside the arteries, making it harder for blood to move through them. Statins work by interfering when the liver produces cholesterol. They also help to lower triglycerides and may even increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. Unlike LDL, HDL brings cholesterol to the liver, which gets it out of the body. 

Before getting on statins, some people want to see if they can lower LDL cholesterol with lifestyle changes. We encourage that decision and although diet and exercise may not lower cholesterol for everyone, a lot of people can benefit from healthier habits, some of which we detail in this article. If your cholesterol levels are already in normal range, you can help maintain them with the Dherbs Cholesterol Formula. To help lower cholesterol before statins, consider the following tips. 

Consider The Portfolio Diet

The Portfolio Diet is a plant-based eating plan that emphasizes foods that are naturally rich in fiber and healthy fats. Conceived some 20 years ago, the diet has a proven ability to lower LDL cholesterol, but none of the trials proving this lasted more than six months. For this reason, more long-term studies are necessary. When followed consistently, though, research suggests that the Portfolio Diet may lower LDL cholesterol by up to 30%, an effect comparable to a first-generation statin for some people. 

Move Your Body Every Day

Exercise is a powerful and easily accessible tool that may help lower cholesterol levels naturally. Ideally, engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week, in addition to two days of strength training. Physical activity helps to elevate HDL cholesterol, lower triglycerides, and reduce visceral fat, which is metabolically active fat stored around internal organs that contributes to cardiovascular risk. People who lose between 5% to 10% of body weight can significantly improve cholesterol levels. 

Prioritize Fiber

Fiber is an often overlooked nutrient, with many people not getting enough every day. In fact, more than 90% of women and 97% of men do meet the recommended daily fiber intake. Not all fiber works the same regarding cholesterol, though. Soluble fiber exhibits the strongest LDL-lowering effect. It forms a gel-like substance in the gut, binding to cholesterol in the gastrointestinal tract and escorting it out to prevent reabsorption. Great sources of soluble fiber include:

• Apples
• Barley
• Beans
• Chia seeds
• Flaxseed
• Lentils
• Oats
• Psyllium husk

Build Your Plate Around Whole Plant-Based Foods

If you want to lower cholesterol levels in a meaningful way, eat more whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, seeds, nuts, and whole grains. All of these foods contain plant sterols, which are natural compounds that resemble cholesterol, which helps block the body’s absorption of it in the digestive tract. The sterols in vegetable oils, seeds, nuts, whole grains, vegetables, and certain fortified foods can all help lower cholesterol. In fact, getting two grams of plant sterols daily can lower LDL cholesterol by up to 12%. 

Reduce Intake Of Refined Carbs And Added Sugars

Health experts always suggest people to steer clear of saturated and trans fats if they are concerned about LDL cholesterol. Avoiding these types of fats can also help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Refined carbs and added sugars are just as dangerous, as they can raise triglycerides and increase cardiovascular risk. Sugary drinks, white bread, packaged pastries, and ultra-processed snacks contribute to insulin resistance, which affects cholesterol levels. It is better to consume whole grains and limit your consumption of added sugars to help improve triglycerides and HDL cholesterol levels. 

Some Natural Supplements May Help

Before you decide to take supplements to help naturally lower cholesterol levels, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. Some products can come with side effects or may interact with other medications or supplements that you already take. Certain supplements, though, have some proven ability to lower cholesterol. For example, psyllium supplements can lower LDL cholesterol by about 7%. Omega-3 supplements can also help reduce triglycerides, but they don’t significantly lower LDL levels.

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