Cholesterol Busters.

Garlic has been touted for its many health benefits and some studies purport that it even lowers your blood cholesterol.  Garlic lowers LDL (the bad cholesterol), increases HDL (the good cholesterol) and helps reduce triglyceride levels.  The phytochemicals present in garlic have the same effect on the body as statin drugs.  Garlic is said to be a form of natural statin, without the side effects.  Ayurveda, an ancient system of healing from India suggests boiling a clove of garlic in a cup of hot milk and consuming it daily.  In addition to daily exercise and a diet of fiber rich foods, Ayurveda recommends that you drink lots of water.  For a western holistic approach, radical lifestyle changes may be required.  The Mediterranean diet, a diet rich in olive oil and other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and fish has been touted as a heart-healthy diet.  Whole grain cereals such as oats and soluble fibers such as beans can significantly reduce cholesterol levels.  Eating fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids at least twice a week can lower LDL levels (the bad cholesterol) as well as blood pressure.  And don’t forget to shop for walnuts; they are also a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids.