One of the biggest concerns when diagnosed with high cholesterol is one’s diet. This is because every type of food could have a different effect on one suffering from cholesterol. In order to avoid temptation, those with high cholesterol end up avoiding snacks altogether, fearing the risk of triggering complications. This certainly does not have to be the case.

You can easily pick a balanced snack that helps to regulate your cholesterol levels, boosts metabolism, and maintain blood sugar levels. Below is a list of popular healthy snacks to help lower high cholesterol.

1. Nuts
Some of the best nuts for your cardiovascular health include walnuts, peanuts, and almonds. There have been proven studies to show how nuts contain essential nutrients that help bring down LDL cholesterol levels. According to the American Heart Association, every individual is recommended to add a quarter cup of nuts to their everyday diet for a healthy heart.

2. Vegetables
This is one of the best additions to any diet because vegetables supply the body with the required minerals, fiber, and vitamins, especially when trying to lower cholesterol levels. However, for many, vegetables are not even considered as snacks. On the contrary, this could be one of the best snacks for one to munch on without having to worry, as they can just eat some pre-cut vegetables. They can also dip it in various dips or fat-free yogurt. Something as simple as eating carrots with hummus drives the nutritional value and is tasty, too. On average, it is recommended to eat at least 3-5 servings of vegetables.

3. Popcorn
This is one of the most underrated snacks. This is because most often, popcorn is topped with a lot of fats and flavors that increase the calorie intake, and munching on plain popcorn can be a little difficult. But, this does not have to be the case. Popcorn is not only low in calories but also can be made flavorful with a touch of olive oil and some parmesan cheese shavings. This way, one will end up boosting good cholesterols instead of the bad ones.

4. Oatmeal
If there’s one snack that can lower cholesterol, then the answer is simply a bowl of oatmeal. The best thing about this soluble fiber is that it ends up soaking the cholesterol without getting absorbed by the body. This is an excellent snack and meal for those who are health-conscious but want a filling meal.

It is not easy to associate health with snacks, but this is because snacks are often seen as junk food when it does not have to be so. Eating healthy snacks will boost one’s health while also helping keep cholesterol in check.