The short answer from a dietitian
Oatmeal is a great option whether you make it simple or dress it up with fruit, seeds and nuts. But besides just being an Instagram-worthy bowl of goodness, oatmeal offers a particularly impressive benefit.
Advertisement
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Eating just one and one-half cups of cooked oatmeal a day can lower your cholesterol by 5 to 8%.
Oatmeal contains soluble and insoluble fiber – two types that your body needs. Insoluble fiber, which is also found in the skins of many fruits, helps keep us regular. Soluble fiber, which is also found in beans, oranges and pears, helps prevent disease and lowers cholesterol.
Getting both types of fiber is a big win for your body. But there’s another benefit: fiber can also aid in weight loss because it helps you feel full and satisfied.
So go ahead and stock up on this versatile grain!
– Andrea Dunn, RD, LD, CDE.
Advertisement
Sign up for our Health Essentials emails for expert guidance on nutrition, fitness, sleep, skin care and more.
Learn more about our editorial process.
Advertisement
High cholesterol can be genetic, but testing and treatment can lower your heart disease risk
Limiting saturated fat, upping your fiber intake and moving around more can help reduce your ‘bad’ cholesterol
There isn’t enough research to recommend the supplement as a solution for lowering LDL levels
You may notice a decrease in your LDL ‘bad’ cholesterol in about four weeks
In the world of cholesterol, HDL particles are ‘good’ and LDL particles are ‘bad’ for your heart health
Medications known as statins can lower cholesterol levels to minimize the risk of blocked arteries
Fatty fish, flaxseed, extra virgin olive oil and nuts may help raise your HDL number
Grapefruit contains natural chemical compounds that can interfere with certain medications when it’s consumed in large amounts
Although it could be used as a moisturizer, this new trend is not recommended
Communicating clear limits helps protect your time, energy and emotional well-being
High cholesterol can be genetic, but testing and treatment can lower your heart disease risk