The Best Spice for Lowering Cholesterol, According to Dietitians
AOL.com • • health
Key Points:
- Ginger is identified as the best spice for lowering cholesterol due to extensive research showing it reduces total cholesterol and LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels.
- Studies indicate ginger lowers LDL cholesterol by about 5 mg/dL and total cholesterol by about 7 mg/dL, likely due to its antioxidant compounds gingerols and shogaols.
- Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties help combat chronic inflammation, improving fat processing and potentially aiding liver cholesterol clearance and reducing gut cholesterol absorption.
- Experts recommend consuming around 1 teaspoon (1.5 to 2 grams) of ground ginger daily, optionally paired with lemon, and incorporating it into meals like soups, baked goods, and teas for best results.
- While beneficial, ginger should complement a heart-healthy diet rich in soluble fiber, unsaturated fats, and minimally processed plant foods rather than replace healthy lifestyle habits.
