Doctor advises 8 natural ways to reduce bad cholesterol in just 30 days
ET Online |
1/8
High cholesterol
High cholesterol is a “silent killer”, you often feel fine until arteries are damaged. According to Dr. Sudhanshu Rai, many Indians don’t realise their LDL (bad cholesterol) has been climbing for months. Starting early can prevent heart attacks and strokes later caused by high cholesterol.
2/8
Cut out fried, processed foods
Fried and processed foods are loaded with trans fats and saturated fats that raise LDL and lower HDL (“good” cholesterol). Mayo Clinic guidelines emphasise avoiding trans fats because even small amounts significantly increase cardiovascular risk. Swapping these for whole foods can start lowering bad cholesterol in weeks.
3/8
Eat oats every morning
Oats are rich in beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that binds cholesterol in the digestive tract and helps clear LDL. Health Harvard’s “11 Foods That Lower Cholesterol” list includes oats as a top recommendation. Having oats daily as breakfast can reduce both total and bad cholesterol in 30 days.
Amazon Top Deals
POWERED BY

Crompton Ozone 75 Litres Desert Air Cooler for home | Large & Easy Clean Ice Chamber | 4-Way Air Deflection | High Density Honeycomb Pads | Everlast Pump | Auto Fill| 3 Year Brand Warranty
₹9,798Buy Now43%
OFF

LG 32 L Convection Microwave Oven (MC3286BRUM, Black, 360° Motorised Rotisserie for Bar-be-queing, 301 Auto Cook Menu, Stainless steel cavity, Indian Cuisine, Tandoor Se, Steam Clean & Diet Fry)
₹19,340Buy Now19%
OFF
4/8
Add flaxseeds to smoothies
Flaxseeds are plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids and lignans which lower inflammation and cholesterol. Studies reviewed in Healthline show flaxseed intake reduces LDL levels moderately. One tablespoon daily in drinks or oats supports lipid balance and reduces cardiac risk.
5/8
Replace red meat with fish 4× per week
Red meat contains more saturated fat which raises LDL; fish provides heart-healthy omega-3s which help reduce inflammation and improve lipid profile. Guidelines from Mayo Clinic and Harvard agree replacing saturated fats with unsaturated sources like fish helps lower cholesterol. Doing this several times weekly contributes to measurable improvements.
6/8
Drink green tea between meals
Green tea contains catechin antioxidants which help reduce LDL oxidation and improve arterial health. Research in multiple studies including very well health and nutritional science confirms green tea makes modest but meaningful reductions in bad cholesterol. Regular sipping of unsweetened green tea supports better cholesterol control.
7/8
Eat apples with skin, use olive oil instead of butter
Apples (with skin) have soluble fiber and polyphenols that help reduce cholesterol absorption, as seen in Harvard’s food recommendations. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats which replace the harmful saturated fats found in butter; BetterHealth and other sources highlight this swap lowers LDL and protects heart vessels when used in cooking or dressings.
8/8
Move briskly 45 minutes daily
Regular physical activity burns fat, boosts HDL (good cholesterol), and reduces LDL. Mayo Clinic and Cleveland Clinic both list walking or moderate-to-vigorous exercise as a top lifestyle change to manage cholesterol. Building a habit of brisk walks daily helps reinforce all dietary changes and delivers cardiovascular benefits.
(Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before making major changes to your diet, exercise, or health routine, especially if you have existing heart or metabolic conditions.)
(Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Consult your doctor before making major changes to your diet, exercise, or health routine, especially if you have existing heart or metabolic conditions.)