18 Best Home Remedies to Reduce High Cholesterol Level
Cholesterol is a soft, waxy, fat-like substance mostly found naturally in animal products, such as meat and dairy foods. Our body requires a certain amount of cholesterol to perform various bodily functions. Cholesterol plays a very important role in secretion of several enzymes and hormones including aldosterone, cortisol, cortisone, progesterone,estrogen, testosterone and Ubiquinone.
Cholesterol plays an important role in synthesis of Vitamin D3 which is responsible for proper bone calcification. Cholesterol is also responsible for maintaining the stiffness, stability and maintenance of cell structure.
There are two types of cholesterol; LDL (low-density lipoproteins, bad cholesterol) and HDL (high-density lipoproteins, good cholesterol). An overabundance or high concentrations of cholesterol in the body, however, can lead to a condition known as Hypercholesterolemia, or high cholesterol.
Hypercholesterolemia, or high cholesterol, is a condition in which LDL (Low Density Lipoproteins) get accumulate and combine together with other bits of detritus floating in the blood, to build plaque like deposits in the blood arteries. When more and more of these deposits accumulate, it becomes difficult for enough blood to flow through the arteries, thus decreasing the oxygen in the blood stream. Eventually, such a condition becomes a silent danger that puts people at risk of heart attack and can cause brain stroke too.
Levels and Ranges
In adults, total cholesterol levels less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) are considered healthy.A reading between 200 and 239 mg/dL is borderline high. A reading of 240 mg/dL and above is considered high.
Causes of High Blood Cholesterol
However, you can reduce high cholesterol by following some natural home remedies and tips which are given below:
18 Home Remedies To Cure High Cholesterol
1. Green Tea
Catechins, a type of disease-fighting flavonoid and antioxidant, are the keys to lower LDL cholesterol levels. High concentration of polyphenol in green tea not only lowering LDL Cholesterol but also increase HDL Cholesterol. A recent study on a group of volunteers showed that men who drank green tea had lower cholesterol levels as compared to those who didn’t. To reduce cholesterol all you need to take 1 teaspoon of green tea and 1 cup of water. Add a teaspoon of green tea to a cup of water.Bring it to a boil in a saucepan. Simmer at least for 5 minutes and strain. Let it cool Down. When the tea cools down and becomes lukewarm then add some honey to it. Drink it while it is still lukewarm. For best results consume at least 3 cups of green tea on a daily basis.
2. Olive Oil
Olive oil is a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, which can actually help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. In addition to heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, olive oil is also a rich source of powerful anti-oxidants which also helps a lot in reduction of bad cholesterol. Daily consumption of 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil are very beneficial in lowering the level of bad cholesterol.
3. Fenugreek (Methi)
Anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties properties of fenugreek are very helpful in reducing high cholesterol. Saponins and fiber components found in fenugreek are also very beneficial to reduce cholesterol. For best results, try to consume half to one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds on a regular basis.
4. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols and helps a lot in reducing high cholesterol level. Take 5 pieces of cinnamon sticks and put them in a saucepan containing 2 cups of water. Boil the water and then turn off the stove. Now add a tablespoon of honey to it. Let the mixture cool down and drink this concoction when it become lukewarm.
5. Coriander Seeds
Coriander seeds are also very helpful in reducing high cholesterol. Add 2 tablespoons of coriander seeds in a glass of water. Boil the concoction and allow it to cool. Strain the water and have it three times a day.
In addition to reducing high cholesterol, coriander seeds are also very helpful in diabetes management.
6. Onions
Consuming raw onions or onion juice is highly beneficial in reducing the high cholesterol.Raw onions have higher levels of organic sulfur compounds that not only helps in reducing high cholesterol but also help cleanse the arteries. Red onions are more beneficial in dealing with high cholesterol due to high sulphur contents. Red onions help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol levels.
Try to consume raw and chopped onions as salad. You can also mix one teaspoon each of onion juice and honey. Drink it once daily.
7. Garlic
Garlic when minced or crushed, releases a sulphur rich compound Allicin, which is considered very helpful to reduce your cholesterol naturally. Garlic can be eaten raw or cooked but raw garlic is more beneficial in lowering bad cholesterol. You can add 2-3 finally chopped or minced garlic cloves to salads and other dishes.You can also chew on peeled garlic cloves. When you teeth crush the garlic cloves, sulphur rich allicin release, which helps a lot in reduction of bad cholesterol.
8. Oatmeal
Consumption of oatmeal helps a lot to reduce cholesterol. Oatmeal is a rich source of soluble fibre, which form a kind of gel in your intestine to reduce absorption of the fat you eat. Eating 1-1/2 cups a day could lower your LDL 12 - 24 %.
9. Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts)
Eating nuts regularly, especially almonds and walnuts, also help reduce cholesterol levels specially the LDL cholesterol. These nuts are good source of omega-3 fatty acids which are very helpful to reduce the level of bad cholesterol.
In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, these nuts are also a good source of magnesium which naturally keeps limiting cholesterol production so that it covers necessary functions but prevents from produced in excess. Eating a handful of these nuts is enough but don't overdo it and avoid over-eating of nuts.
Note: If you are allergic to Nut, avoid this home remedy.
10. Apple
''An apple a day keeps doctor away'' is a famous phrase and pretty right regarding cholesterol. Anti-oxidants and pectin in apple are very helpful in lowering cholesterol and preventing many heart diseases.
A 2011 study by researchers from Florida State University found that older women who ate apples every day reduced LDL cholesterol levels by 23% within six months and increased HDL cholesterol levels by 4%. The apple eating women also lost an average of 3.3 pounds.
11. Berries (Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries)
Anti-oxidants and high fiber contents in berries specially raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and strawberries, helps a lot to reduce high cholesterol level. Try to consume 200g-250g of berries on a daily basis.
12. Orange Juice
Orange juice is a rich source of Vitamin C, folate, and flavonoids. All these nutrients help a lot to reduce high cholesterol level. Drinking 2-3 cups of fresh orange juice on a daily basis can be highly beneficial in reducing blood cholesterol levels naturally.
13. Grapefruit juice
Grapefruit is a rich source of Vitamin C, fiber, and minerals like magnesium and potassium. The strong antioxidant potential of grapefruits, along with other nutrients is highly beneficial in reducing cholesterol levels. Daily consumption of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is very helpful in lowering cholesterol level. For better results, consume this after meals.
14. Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate contains high levels of antioxidants These antioxidants help in lowering the bad cholesterol (LDL). To reduce you bad cholesterol you should consume at least one cup of pomegranate juice on a regular basis.
15. Lemon Juice and Honey
Vitamin C and antioxidants in Lemon juice are very helpful in getting rid of bad cholesterol. Honey also helps in lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and raising the level of good cholesterol (HDL). A mixture of lemon juice and honey is highly beneficial in lowering the level of bad cholesterol as well as promotes weight loss too.
Take a glass of lukewarm water and add the juice of half lemon. Mix well and then add 1 teaspoon of honey and stir well. For best results, consume this regularly on an empty stomach.
16. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) contains acetic acid which is very helpful in losing the unwanted body weight associated with high cholesterol. Take 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and half teaspoon of honey. Add them in one glass of lukewarm water and mix well. Drink this solution on a daily basis to get rid of excess cholesterol.
17. Green Veggies
Green veggies specially Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage and Kale protect the tiny bends and branches in your blood vessels, the areas most prone to cholesterol build-up and inflammation. Green veggies not only help in preventing the cholesterol build-up but also reduce the level of bad cholesterol which in turn, prevent from many heart-diseases.
18. Regular Exercise
Finally regular exercise is the best way to naturally burn your excessive cholesterol. If you don't get extra time for early morning jogging or gym then simply a brisk walk of 10-20 minutes will be very beneficial for reducing extra cholesterol.
Cholesterol plays an important role in synthesis of Vitamin D3 which is responsible for proper bone calcification. Cholesterol is also responsible for maintaining the stiffness, stability and maintenance of cell structure.
There are two types of cholesterol; LDL (low-density lipoproteins, bad cholesterol) and HDL (high-density lipoproteins, good cholesterol). An overabundance or high concentrations of cholesterol in the body, however, can lead to a condition known as Hypercholesterolemia, or high cholesterol.
Hypercholesterolemia, or high cholesterol, is a condition in which LDL (Low Density Lipoproteins) get accumulate and combine together with other bits of detritus floating in the blood, to build plaque like deposits in the blood arteries. When more and more of these deposits accumulate, it becomes difficult for enough blood to flow through the arteries, thus decreasing the oxygen in the blood stream. Eventually, such a condition becomes a silent danger that puts people at risk of heart attack and can cause brain stroke too.
Levels and Ranges
In adults, total cholesterol levels less than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) are considered healthy.A reading between 200 and 239 mg/dL is borderline high. A reading of 240 mg/dL and above is considered high.
Causes of High Blood Cholesterol
- Eating Too Much Saturated Fatty Foods (Red Meats, dairy products, chocolate, cheese, baked goods, deep-fried, and processed foods)
- Trans Fats (Some Fried and Processed Foods)
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption
- Cigarette Smoking
- Inherited Factors
- Stress
- Obesity and Lack of Exercise
- Some Medical Conditions (diabetes,Liver or kidney disease, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Underactive Thyroid gland)
However, you can reduce high cholesterol by following some natural home remedies and tips which are given below:
1. Green Tea
Catechins, a type of disease-fighting flavonoid and antioxidant, are the keys to lower LDL cholesterol levels. High concentration of polyphenol in green tea not only lowering LDL Cholesterol but also increase HDL Cholesterol. A recent study on a group of volunteers showed that men who drank green tea had lower cholesterol levels as compared to those who didn’t. To reduce cholesterol all you need to take 1 teaspoon of green tea and 1 cup of water. Add a teaspoon of green tea to a cup of water.Bring it to a boil in a saucepan. Simmer at least for 5 minutes and strain. Let it cool Down. When the tea cools down and becomes lukewarm then add some honey to it. Drink it while it is still lukewarm. For best results consume at least 3 cups of green tea on a daily basis.
2. Olive Oil
Olive oil is a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, which can actually help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. In addition to heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, olive oil is also a rich source of powerful anti-oxidants which also helps a lot in reduction of bad cholesterol. Daily consumption of 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil are very beneficial in lowering the level of bad cholesterol.
3. Fenugreek (Methi)
Anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties properties of fenugreek are very helpful in reducing high cholesterol. Saponins and fiber components found in fenugreek are also very beneficial to reduce cholesterol. For best results, try to consume half to one teaspoon of fenugreek seeds on a regular basis.
4. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is loaded with powerful antioxidants, such as polyphenols and helps a lot in reducing high cholesterol level. Take 5 pieces of cinnamon sticks and put them in a saucepan containing 2 cups of water. Boil the water and then turn off the stove. Now add a tablespoon of honey to it. Let the mixture cool down and drink this concoction when it become lukewarm.
5. Coriander Seeds
Coriander seeds are also very helpful in reducing high cholesterol. Add 2 tablespoons of coriander seeds in a glass of water. Boil the concoction and allow it to cool. Strain the water and have it three times a day.
In addition to reducing high cholesterol, coriander seeds are also very helpful in diabetes management.
6. Onions
Consuming raw onions or onion juice is highly beneficial in reducing the high cholesterol.Raw onions have higher levels of organic sulfur compounds that not only helps in reducing high cholesterol but also help cleanse the arteries. Red onions are more beneficial in dealing with high cholesterol due to high sulphur contents. Red onions help reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol levels.
Try to consume raw and chopped onions as salad. You can also mix one teaspoon each of onion juice and honey. Drink it once daily.
7. Garlic
Garlic when minced or crushed, releases a sulphur rich compound Allicin, which is considered very helpful to reduce your cholesterol naturally. Garlic can be eaten raw or cooked but raw garlic is more beneficial in lowering bad cholesterol. You can add 2-3 finally chopped or minced garlic cloves to salads and other dishes.You can also chew on peeled garlic cloves. When you teeth crush the garlic cloves, sulphur rich allicin release, which helps a lot in reduction of bad cholesterol.
8. Oatmeal
Consumption of oatmeal helps a lot to reduce cholesterol. Oatmeal is a rich source of soluble fibre, which form a kind of gel in your intestine to reduce absorption of the fat you eat. Eating 1-1/2 cups a day could lower your LDL 12 - 24 %.
9. Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts)
Eating nuts regularly, especially almonds and walnuts, also help reduce cholesterol levels specially the LDL cholesterol. These nuts are good source of omega-3 fatty acids which are very helpful to reduce the level of bad cholesterol.
In addition to omega-3 fatty acids, these nuts are also a good source of magnesium which naturally keeps limiting cholesterol production so that it covers necessary functions but prevents from produced in excess. Eating a handful of these nuts is enough but don't overdo it and avoid over-eating of nuts.
Note: If you are allergic to Nut, avoid this home remedy.
10. Apple
''An apple a day keeps doctor away'' is a famous phrase and pretty right regarding cholesterol. Anti-oxidants and pectin in apple are very helpful in lowering cholesterol and preventing many heart diseases.
A 2011 study by researchers from Florida State University found that older women who ate apples every day reduced LDL cholesterol levels by 23% within six months and increased HDL cholesterol levels by 4%. The apple eating women also lost an average of 3.3 pounds.
11. Berries (Raspberries, Blackberries, Blueberries, Strawberries)
Anti-oxidants and high fiber contents in berries specially raspberries, blackberries, blueberries and strawberries, helps a lot to reduce high cholesterol level. Try to consume 200g-250g of berries on a daily basis.
12. Orange Juice
Orange juice is a rich source of Vitamin C, folate, and flavonoids. All these nutrients help a lot to reduce high cholesterol level. Drinking 2-3 cups of fresh orange juice on a daily basis can be highly beneficial in reducing blood cholesterol levels naturally.
13. Grapefruit juice
Grapefruit is a rich source of Vitamin C, fiber, and minerals like magnesium and potassium. The strong antioxidant potential of grapefruits, along with other nutrients is highly beneficial in reducing cholesterol levels. Daily consumption of freshly squeezed grapefruit juice is very helpful in lowering cholesterol level. For better results, consume this after meals.
14. Pomegranate Juice
Pomegranate contains high levels of antioxidants These antioxidants help in lowering the bad cholesterol (LDL). To reduce you bad cholesterol you should consume at least one cup of pomegranate juice on a regular basis.
15. Lemon Juice and Honey
Vitamin C and antioxidants in Lemon juice are very helpful in getting rid of bad cholesterol. Honey also helps in lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) and raising the level of good cholesterol (HDL). A mixture of lemon juice and honey is highly beneficial in lowering the level of bad cholesterol as well as promotes weight loss too.
Take a glass of lukewarm water and add the juice of half lemon. Mix well and then add 1 teaspoon of honey and stir well. For best results, consume this regularly on an empty stomach.
16. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) contains acetic acid which is very helpful in losing the unwanted body weight associated with high cholesterol. Take 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and half teaspoon of honey. Add them in one glass of lukewarm water and mix well. Drink this solution on a daily basis to get rid of excess cholesterol.
17. Green Veggies
Green veggies specially Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Cabbage and Kale protect the tiny bends and branches in your blood vessels, the areas most prone to cholesterol build-up and inflammation. Green veggies not only help in preventing the cholesterol build-up but also reduce the level of bad cholesterol which in turn, prevent from many heart-diseases.
18. Regular Exercise
Finally regular exercise is the best way to naturally burn your excessive cholesterol. If you don't get extra time for early morning jogging or gym then simply a brisk walk of 10-20 minutes will be very beneficial for reducing extra cholesterol.