10 foods that will help you keep your cholesterol levels under control.

With a lot of people getting prone to heart disease, it is important that we take steps to keep our cholesterol levels under control. Here are ten foods that will help you keep your cholesterol levels under control. 

Figs: 

Figs are a very good source of antioxidants and vitamins A, E and K. “These also help lower blood sugar levels among diabetics,” says Maithili Pashtekar, a Mumbai-based nutritionist. It also helps control your heart rate and blood pressure she informs. 

Avocados: ( Makhanphal)

 Avocados contain both mono saturated and poly-unsaturated fat and potassium, all of which help in promoting optimum heart health. It also contains vitamin E, B and folic acid. 

Prunes: (Aloo Bhakara)

Prunes, a healthy source of fiber and phytochemicals, help to protect your heart. They are a healthy source of carbohydrates too. Potassium in prunes also helps in keeping blood pressure under control. 

Peanuts:

Peanuts are rich in mono-unsaturated fatty acids like oleic acids that help lower LDL or bad cholesterol. It also reduces risk of stroke. 

Watermelon:

Watermelon is high in vitamins A and C and help neutralise free radicals that can lead to inflammation, general sickness and chronic illnesses such as stroke and heart attack. High water content in watermelon helps you burn fat too. 

Tomatoes:

Tomatoes contain beta carotene and antioxidants that protects your body from free radicals. It also contains potassium that helps controlling heart rate and blood pressure caused by sodium 

Whole wheat:

“Wheat is a good source of fiber,” says Maithili. It helps in reducing bad cholesterol too. It is also a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid that keeps stress in check. 

Apple:

Apples are a great source of dietary fiber too. They are also a good source of vitamin C, iron, phosphorus and potassium. Apples help strengthening blood vessels and keep cholesterol levels in control. 

Fish:

Fish is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids that help cut down cholesterol levels. “It also helps in maintaining healthy blood vessels by keeping them elastic and reduces blood clots,” says Maithili. 

Leafy vegetables:

Green leafy vegetables are a good source of vitamin B-complex and niacin. They prevent hardening of arteries and helps to keep your cholesterol levels in check.