A high level of cholesterol is a very serious problem and it increases the risk of developing coronary heart disease as well as stroke and heart attack. Diet high in fats, smoking, drinking and leading a sedentary lifestyle are the major factors for increase in cholesterol level.

Low cholesterol foods are one of the natural ways of lowering cholesterol levels. Following a low cholesterol diet can be very effective in controlling and maintaining a normal cholesterol level. This means eating low cholesterol foods such as soy products, lean meats, nuts, vegetables and fruits are good for healthy heart.

High fiber foods are also very helpful in lowering cholesterol. Regular exercise is also a good habit if you are really trying to lower your cholesterol levels. Exercise helps in increasing HDL (good cholesterol) in the body as well as strengthens your heart muscle, helps keep your blood pressure at normal and even helps you in shedding of those excess pounds. List of cholesterol lowering foods

1. Vegetables - They are high in dietary fiber and dietary nutrients that aids not only regulated metabolism but also balances cholesterol levels. Other benefits of eating vegetables also include the reduction of heart diseases and cancer as well as high blood pressure.

2. Fruits - This food group is also among the top food groups that lower cholesterol because they are very low in calorie content. Fruits contain large amounts of significant vitamins and nutrients that help prevent of vitamin deficiency as well as other diseases.

3. Grains, Nuts & Seeds - They are in high-energy content and dietary fiber content. This makes them effective foods to lower cholesterol level. They are also known as effective in controlling weight. Nuts and seeds contain large amounts of vitamins and minerals and are also high in dietary fiber.

4. Lean meats - Lean red meats, lean chicken/turkey meats and fish are another important foods in the list of low cholesterol. These are rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and micronutrients that are excellent for a person's metabolism as well as in fighting off bad cholesterol.