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Cholesterol is a waxy substance that our body produces to form cells, tissues, and organs. It is also integral in the making of hormones and bile juice in the body. There are two types of cholesterol, HDL or high-density lipoprotein and LDL or low-density lipoprotein. Low-density lipoprotein is termed as the bad cholesterol and it stems from having foods with saturated fats and trans fats coupled with poor diet, minimal exercising, and bad lifestyle choices like smoking or high alcohol consumption.
Accumulation of fats in the body leads to higher levels of bad cholesterol. There is no way to check for it unless you consult a doctor. The rise in cholesterol levels is correlated with the rise in heart attacks at an early age. Cholesterol clogs up the arteries in the heart and stifles the flow of blood and oxygen, leading to cardiac arrest or coronary-related diseases.
To counter the buildup of bad cholesterol levels in your body, move around and exercise. Abstain from greasy fast foods and have more plant-based diets that are full of fiber. In fact, you can have juices and beverages to sip on throughout the day, which makes it all the more doable and sustainable. So, here are 9 drinks that can help reduce bad cholesterol levels in your body.
1. Basil or Tulsi leaves in hot water
Eugenol, which is an essential oil present in basil leaves, helps in reducing high cholesterol levels in the body. Steeping a handful of basil leaves in hot water infuses the water with the properties of the leaf and can be a soothing drink for people having high cholesterol. Chewing on basil leaves or drinking its decoction prevents high blood pressure as well.
2. Haldi Doodh
A glass of warm haldi doodh before bed helps induce sleepiness. But turmeric also helps in the preservation of the arteries. The compound curcumin in turmeric is anti-inflammatory and helps in reducing high cholesterol levels. Turmeric is also important in preventing the hardening of the arteries. The most favoured spice in Indian kitchens is known for its anti-septic and anti-bacterial properties, but it also keeps the heart healthy.
3. Green Tea
Green Tea contains catechin and other antioxidants that keep the cholesterol levels in the body down. Alternatively, one can have black tea as well but green tea has more potency when curbing the LDL. It is advised to have 4-6 cups of green tea a day, to keep a check on the bad cholesterol levels in the body.
4. Tomato Juice
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Pomegranate juice contains nearly three times as many antioxidants as green tea or red wine, making it a perfect drink to lower cholesterol levels. It helps with lowering LDL cholesterol, reducing blood vessel damage and prevents the hardening of the arteries.
