Improve your heart health with 8 summer superfoods
And some contain plant sterols, which prevent the body from absorbing cholesterol.
During the summer season, it is essential to pay attention to our cholesterol levels to maintain good heart health. Fortunately, there are plenty of delicious foods available that can help increase our good cholesterol levels and keep us feeling healthy and energetic. Here are eight simple summer foods you can include in your diet to promote good cholesterol:
1. Avocado:
Avocados are rich in healthy fats that can help increase HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, the good type of cholesterol.
2. Nuts:
Almonds, walnuts and other nuts are packed with nutrients that can improve cholesterol levels. Enjoy a handful of nuts as a snack or add them to your salads and yogurt.
3. Olive Oil:
Use olive oil as your primary cooking oil instead of butter or vegetable oil. Olive oil contains monounsaturated fats that can increase HDL cholesterol levels.
4. Oily Fish:
Salmon, mackerel and trout are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which can increase good cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the body.
5. Oats:
Start your day with a bowl of oatmeal topped with fresh fruit. Oats are high in soluble fiber, which can help lower low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels while increasing HDL cholesterol.
6. Fruits and Vegetables:
Add a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to your summer meals. They are rich in antioxidants and fiber, which can improve heart health and cholesterol levels.
7. Legumes:
Beans, lentils and chickpeas are all excellent sources of soluble fiber and plant protein, which can help lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol levels.
8. Green Tea:
Swap sugary drinks for refreshing green tea. Green tea contains antioxidants called catechins, which may help improve cholesterol levels and protect against heart disease.
