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Know About The Spices That Bring Down Cholesterol

You may be aware that cholesterol is bad for your body. But, did you know that the right amount of cholesterol is also needed to keep your body functionsproper?Only when you over-consume certain food, in which it is present, you can have cardiovascular problems in the future. Read on to know more about cholesterol and how to bring it down by includingsome common spices in your daily diet.

What is cholesterol?

It is a waxy substance found in various foods and has an important role in someactivities of the body. Two types of cholesterol deposits arefound in the blood – LDL (Low-density lipoprotein) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein). LDL is considered bad for the body as it canlead to cardiac and circulatory problems. HDL is the good cholesterol and has several benefits.If you have high cholesterol levels, especially the LDL category, then, take help of the following spices for controlling them:

• Garlic

One of the most effective spices that help in controlling cholesterol is garlic. According to studies, garlic contains an organic-sulfur compound, called S–allyl cysteine. This helps prevent cholesterol synthesis in the body. The compound is mostly found in large quantities, in aged garlic. Make sure to use garlic in your everyday cooking to keep the cholesterol levels low.

• Turmeric

Turmeric is a very commonly used Indian spice that adds golden yellow color to the food, besides having anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties. You can alsoconsume it to heal stomach disorders and liver problems. A study analysed the effects of turmeric in cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations. The conclusion was that, it bought down LDL cholesterol levels and increased HDL cholesterol levels in four weeks. You can include organic turmeric powder in soups, salads, and curries or mix it with warm milk and drink at night.

• Ginger

A spice that is great for dissolving cholesterol deposits in the blood vessels is ginger. Ginger helps to relax the blood vessels and allows free flow of blood. It is also very effective in dissolving bad cholesterol levels if you consume it regularly. Ginger adds a kick to your food when you add it in soups, curries, chinese foods, or beverages.

• Black pepper

Black pepper is a very commonly used spice that is available globally. Piperine, a chemical in black pepper has amazing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. A study done on rats showed that, black pepper was effective in bringing down low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels and very-low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. In addition, black pepper also brought down triglyceride levels, that cause cardiovascular problems.

• Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a sweet-smelling spice that is used in making pastries and sweets and also brings down LDL cholesterol levels in the body. Cinnamon also has a lot of other benefitsand you can get them through regular use.

• Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is a variety of chilli that is very popular in southAmerica and Mexico. This pepper is known for its distinct taste and smell. It can help reduce pain signals in the body and also dissolves cholesterol deposits in the blood vessels. However, make sure that you do not consume an excess of the chillias it can lead to ulcers.

• Coriander

Coriander seeds are spices that are regularly used in Indian cooking and are gradually getting popular in the west. These seeds have the ability to reduce total levels of triglycerides and cholesterol. A study group used coriander seeds regularly and saw decreased levels of LDL cholesterol and increased levels of HDL cholesterol after a certain period. You can ground coriander seeds and add them as aflavoring agent to curries, soups, pasta and noodles or drink coriander tea everydaytotake in its goodness.

• Fenugreek

Fenugreek seed is a common culinary agent used in Asian cooking. It has immense health benefits, one of which is lowering the cholesterol levels. These seeds contain an ingredient called steroidal saponins. Studies show that saponins reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine and help to eliminate most of the cholesterol that you consume.

Take note of all the common spices and culinary ingredients that can help in lowering cholesterol levels in your blood. Use them in everyday cooking or find out alternate ways for their consumption. These simple home remedies can bring about amazing results for your problems. However, be careful about allergies and intolerances, and consult your doctor before changing your diet.

One of the important components of our overall wellness is also being financially secured. Healthcare emergencies can happen any time, but a good health insurance policy can protect you from such uncertain situations. To know more about Wellness and other health related tips, visit the wellness corner.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on November 12, 2021

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