Foods that kick cholesterol in the butt

There are 2 types of cholesterol-LDL(the bad type) and HDL(the good one). Food labels account for both types so it can be rather difficult in determining whether a certain food that is marked as high in cholesterol is actually good for you.

The LDL type forms plaque on your artery walls. This type is generally sticky and the smaller the LDL particle, the more malignant it is. On the other hand, the HDL actually removes the LDL cholesterol by transporting it to your liver. HDL particles are large and fluffy. I'm trying to depict this process and simply as possible. If you would prefer a more illustrative explanation of how these types of cholesterol impact your body, I will be more than happy to give one.

For those of you who are concerned about loweing cholesterol, I have presented an exhaustive list of all those foods which help combat LDL particles. Of course, the best way to combat this problem would be through exercise and a reasonable diet. Some of these foods on the list arent cheap. But they are definetely a lot cheaper than ehhh.....angioplasty.

FOODS THAT KICK CHOLETEROL'S BUTT

1) Fish or fish oil
-its all about the omega-3's (omega-6's as well but they're not as prevalent)

2) AVACADOS AND OLIVES
-these foods are high in saturated fat but it is this very fat that gives rise to the HDL. these good fats abate heart disease and also diabetes.

3) FLAXSEED OIL
-omega-3's. this is for vegetarians who still need a doseage of omega-3s. Tastes like crap though.

4)BLUEBERRIES
-pterostilbene may help lower cholesterol. Also a fruit with one of the highest concentration of antidioxidants. Go for the wild blueberries as they have a higher concerntation of antidioxidants.

5)NUTS
-omega-3's. try raw almonds or 100% natural peanut butter

6)COMPLEX WHOLE GRAINS
-minimizes plaque buildup. my favourites are miltons 100% wholewheat bread. a cheaper alternative is orrowheat.

7) POMEGRANATES

8) FOODS FORTIFIED WITH PLANT STEROLS
Foods are now available that have been fortified with sterols or stanols — substances found in plants that help block the absorption of cholesterol.
Margarines and orange juice fortified with plant sterols can help reduce LDL cholesterol by more than 10 percent. The amount of daily plant sterols needed for results is at least 2 grams — which equals about two 8-ounce servings of plant sterol-fortified orange juice a day.

The key here, as in all aspects of life- is moderation. Avacados are beneficial but excess consumption implies an excess consumption of saturated fats which would have devastating consequences. A handful of nuts would be an ideal amount per day.