Final answer:
To lower high blood cholesterol, eating foods rich in viscous, soluble fiber like whole oats, peas, beans, and apples is recommended. These foods can help reduce cholesterol absorption and improve overall heart health.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you're looking to lower your high blood cholesterol by adding more viscous, soluble high-fiber foods to your diet, a good choice would be to incorporate foods like whole oats, peas, beans, and apples. These foods contain soluble fiber, which dissolves in water to form a gel-like substance in the gastrointestinal tract, ultimately helping to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the absorption of glucose. Limiting the intake of high-fat foods, particularly those high in saturated fats, is also crucial, as recommended by the USDA.
Consuming whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits provides substantial dietary fiber, which not only aids in cholesterol management but also reduces the risk of coronary heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, including polyunsaturated fatty acids in your diet, such as omega-3s, can lower LDL ("bad" cholesterol) and raise HDL ("good" cholesterol), contributing to healthier cholesterol levels.