Home remedies to bring down your cholesterol naturally

Cholesterol is a type of fat present in the blood. The body uses cholesterol to perform various activities such as keeping the cell walls flexible, synthesizing of hormones, bile acid and vitamin D. There are mainly two types of cholesterol-Low-Density Lipoproteins (LDL) which is the bad cholesterol that increases your risk of heart disease and the High-Density Lipoproteins (HDL) which is the good cholesterol that reduces your risk of heart diseases. Being overweight, age, family history and foods rich in saturated and trans fat are the factors that affect your cholesterol levels. Cholesterol can lead to the blockage of arteries, but can be reduced by making few changes like following a healthy diet and exercising regularly. Here is a list of home remedies that can help you lower bad cholesterol levels naturally.

Turmeric helps in cutting down the plaque or cholesterol deposits on the walls of the arteries. Add turmeric to your curries or drink turmeric milk before sleeping to help in reducing bad cholesterol. The best way though is to have half a teaspoon of turmeric with warm water first thing in the morning.

Turmeric helps in cutting down the plaque or cholesterol deposits on the walls of the arteries. Add turmeric to your curries or drink turmeric milk before sleeping to help in reducing bad cholesterol. The best way though is to have half a teaspoon of turmeric with warm water first thing in the morning.

Garlic contains a high concentration of allicin, a sulfur containing compound which is known for reducing total and LDL cholesterol significantly. Chew a few cloves of garlic in the morning and at bed time regularly. Raw garlic works better than cooked ones.

Flaxseeds contain alpha-linolenic acid, an essential omega-3 fatty acids which has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol, as well as triglycerides levels. The research is still on to fully support these claims made by several nutritionists. Add a tbsp of powdered flaxseeds to a glass of warm water or milk and mix well. Drink it immediately.

Fish oil is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Regular intake of these fatty acids in the form of fish like mackerel, salmon, lake trout, sardines and halibut helps in lowering the cholesterol levels and the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. If you are a vegetarian, start taking 100 mg of fish oil tablets on a daily basis.

Coriander or dhaniya is loaded with high levels of antioxidants that help bring down cholesterol levels. They have numerous key vitamins like folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin A and beta-carotene. Boil one tsp of coriander seeds in water for about two minutes, and then strain and drink it. This remedy helps in keeping cholesterol levels under check.

Amla is rich in essential amino acids and antioxidants which are great for lowering your cholesterol levels. Consume fresh amla or drink a glass of lukewarm water with 1 teaspoon of dried amla everyday.

Apple cider vinegar acts as a effective remedy for reducing the levels of bad cholesterol in your body. Add a tbsp of apple cider vinegar to a glass of warm water. Mix well. Drink this solution daily for best results.