Add some fiber

• Fiber reduces cholesterol in many ways. It binds the cholesterol and lessens the absorption. It subsequently decreases blood cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and increases protective high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Increase your fiber by about 20 to 30 g daily. One suggestion is psyllium pills. Fruits and fruit skin provide fiber and they are full of antioxidants. Additional menu ideas are high-fiber hot or cold cereals for breakfast, vegetable-filled salads for lunch and whole grains added to your dinner.
  
  

Add soy protein

• Soy contains isoflavones. Isoflavones increase the number and effectiveness of the good LDL cholesterol receptors in the liver, in turn increasing their ability to scoop up and dispose of cholesterol from the bloodstream. Adding 20 g a day is easy to do. Soy milks, nuts, tofu and edamame are all excellent sources. Great menu ideas include soy burgers, breads made with soy flours, and hot and sour soup with tofu. Choice wisely, though; certain soy products are higher in calories and fat.
  
  

Add the omegas

• Reducing saturated fats is a must for any heart-healthy diet plan. But adding essential fatty acids to your diet can help lower LDL cholesterol. There are two main groups--omega-6 and omega-3, which should have a 2:1 consumption ratio. These can be added to a diet by fish oil capsules or via diet. Flaxseed oil or ground flaxseed, cold-water fish such as salmon or trout, or a tablespoon of canola oil can add these important fatty acids to your diet. Great menu ideas include ground flaxseed sprinkled on yogurt or salmon on a bed of green leafy vegetables (another good source).
  
  Eating these foods is not the only change necessary for lowering cholesterol. To be successful, you still must eat a low-fat diet, make sensible choices and find an exercise program that works for you.