Cholesterol is a waxy, soft substance found in all the body cells and is transported through the blood. This lipid is an important part of the cell membrane lining. It also regulates the production of certain hormones and other body functions. Though it plays a very significant role in body functioning, its level needs to be maintained, else it leads to severe health problems like heart attack. What is Cholesterol? Cholesterol cannot dissolve in blood and hence, it is carried by lipoproteins called LDL (low-density) and HDL (high-density). Out of these two lipoproteins, LDL is the major carrier of cholesterol and if the level of LDL increases, then it can get accumulated in the blood arteries of brain and heart. This blocks the passage in the arteries and increases the risk of fatal health problems like stroke and heart attack. Hence, LDL is also referred as bad cholesterol. While HDL is called good cholesterol, since it carries the cholesterol to liver and not towards the heart and the brain. Some medical experts consider that HDL regulates the excess cholesterol in the body and hence, high level of HDL is good for health. List of Foods There are basically two sources of cholesterol for human body, one source is the body itself, while other is from dietary foods. These dietary foods usually consist of animal products and foods high in saturated fats. 1000 milligram cholesterol is produced by our liver on daily basis and thus, there is no need of consuming more of the same. However, with the consumption of foods that contain it, the cholesterol level increases. People whose cholesterol level is high, need to strictly control their diet and prohibit consumption of such foods. Moreover, they also need to exercise regularly to gain a healthy body. There are certain foods that lower cholesterol levels naturally and some of them are listed below. Apples: Apples are rich in anti-oxidants and healthy fiber. Both these contents of apple help to reduce the LDL in the body and increase the HDL. Each of us should consume at least one apple on daily basis. Avocado: Though avocado contains certain amount of fat, this fat is healthy fat, that does not cause any health problem. These fats are in monounsaturated form, which help to lower the LDL in the body. You can try different avocado recipes and enjoy this natural cholesterol burner. Oatmeal: Oats contain soluble fibers, that help to reduce the LDL. You can have an oatmeal breakfast or try other oat recipes. Not just for lowering LDL, but oatmeal is very good for overall health. FDA has approved oatmeal as a cholesterol-lowering food. Flaxseed: Studies have proved that flax seeds help to reduce the LDL effectively. Flaxseeds are also responsible to reduce triglycerides. Moreover, they also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are some of the essential fatty acids required by the body. Other Foods that Help to Lower Cholesterol

• Soy
• Blueberries
• Legumes
• Nuts
• Tofu
• Almonds
• Bananas
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower
• Olive Oil
• Dried Beans
• Lean meat
• Salmon
• Pomegranate Juice
• Pistachios
• Walnuts
• Strawberries
• Grapes
• Spinach
• Garlic
• Cabbage
• Celery
• Onions
• Whole Grain

There are certain foods like whole milk, egg yolk, margarine, cheese, butter, etc, that should be avoided. These foods are high in saturated fats and hence, increase the LDL level in the body. Try to consume foods that are high in fiber and contain monounsaturated fats. Avoid processed and ready-made food products. Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.