Other than soy protein, are there any foods that lower triglycerides and bad cholesterol?

Eating soluble fiber is the key to lowering bad cholesterol. Good sources of soluble fiber include:

• Apples
• Artichokes
• Beans
• Cheerios
• Oat bran
• Oatmeal.

In addition, a recent study showed that black tea can reduce bad cholesterol. Participants who drank 5 cups per day saw a significant reduction in their bad cholesterol.

As the major contributors to triglycerides are sugar and alcohol, bringing the levels down is a more challenging task. To begin, examine your diet and cut your refined sugar intake. There is also anecdotal evidence that flaxseed can help reduce triglyceride levels.

Erin Dummert RD, CD Contributing Expert

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