Cholesterol health

Good cholesterol (HDL) is helpful in preventing plaque buildup and heart attacks. We have great medications (principally statin drugs) for lowering LDL cholesterol. Unfortunately, the pharmacologic options for raising HDL levels are much more limited.

The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil is one way to help raise or maintain healthy HDL levels . Other healthy oils that foster higher HDL levels can be found in natural foods like avocados, ground flaxseed, extra-virgin olive oil, green leafy vegetables, and nuts (especially tree nuts like walnuts, pecans, almonds, and Brazil nuts). Many recent studies have focused on the health benefits of drinking coffee and green tea, and the results are generally encouraging. Long-term generous consumption of green tea has been shown to support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.