Foods That Can Lower Cholesterol

Plant Sterols/Stanols May Lower Cholesterol

Plant sterols may help block the absorption of LDL and affect cholesterol metabolism, preventing the buildup of bad cholesterol, which can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), according to a 2005 study published in The American Journal of Cardiology.

Although you consume small amounts of plant sterols in the fruits and vegetables you eat, it's not enough to make a difference in cholesterol, which is why many products on the market are now supplemented with sterols/stanols. According to the study, a daily recommendation of 2-2.5 grams of plant sterols a day may lower LDL 10-14 percent.

Plant sterols can be found in these fortified products:

• Rice Dream Heartwise
• Promise Activ buttery spreads
• Minute Maid Heart Wise orange juice
• Nature Valley Healthy Heart granola bars

You also can buy plant sterols in supplement form over the counter.