A human body needs some amount of cholesterol to work properly. However, the build-up of too much bad or LDL cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease. This is because LDL cholesterol, in high levels, sticks to the artery walls and develops plaque, resulting in clogged blood vessels. Following a heart-healthy diet plan specifically designed to lower the bad cholesterol level is essential to manage cholesterol. Accordingly, here are five effective dietary tips for patients with high cholesterol levels.

• Eat lots of soluble fiber
  Consuming more foods that are rich in soluble fiber is a useful dietary tip as these food items prevent the digestive tract from absorbing too much cholesterol. Foods rich in soluble fiber include whole-grains cereals such as oatmeals and oat bran, fruits like bananas, prunes, pears, apples, oranges, and legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, kidney beans, lima beans, and black-eyed peas. For maximum cholesterol-lowering effects, doctors recommend creating a diet plan that includes at least 5-10 grams of soluble fiber.
• Pick healthier fats
  Saturated fats and trans fats are two fat types that are known to raise cholesterol levels. The former is found in dairy products, baked goods, some meats, processed foods, and deep-fried foods. Whereas, all foods prepared with hydrogenated oils, like french fries, crackers, and stick margarine, contain trans fats. It is crucial to replace these foods with a variety of unsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and known to lower cholesterol. Lean meats, nuts, fatty fish, avocados, and olives are examples of the same.
• Eat fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
  Omega-3 fatty acids increase the level of good or HDL cholesterol in the blood. Eating fish that contains high levels of omega-3s may also prevent blood clots and inflammation in the heart and reduce the risk of a heart attack. Examples include mackerel, salmon, herring, tuna, anchovies, and sardines. You must eat these fish at least two times a week to substantially raise your good cholesterol levels.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables
  Consuming loads of fruits and vegetables is yet another effective dietary tip for all patients with high cholesterol levels. Eating them regularly helps in lowering bad or LDL cholesterol levels in the blood. They are abundant in antioxidants, which do not allow LDL cholesterol to oxidize and develop plaque in the arteries. These cholesterol-lowering and antioxidative properties of fruits and vegetables work together to reduce the risk of developing heart diseases.
• Drink green tea
  A surprising addition to the list for many, but studies have found that green tea helps in lowering cholesterol levels. Just like fruits and vegetables, green tea is packed with antioxidants, which prevents LDL cholesterol from clogging the arteries. Drinking at least one cup of green tea every day can reduce the risk of heart attack by almost 20 percent.

In case you are used to eating more calorie-rich foods and do not keep track of your nutrition intake, it is advisable to include changes gradually to adapt better to them. Patients can also consult a nutritionist and their doctor for help and advice on dietary tips to manage high cholesterol levels.