it may also help lower cholesterol and prevent atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis is the build-up of fats, cholesterol, and other substances in and on the artery walls. Go easy on this tea, though.
The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends not consuming more than 4g of ginger daily.
Tart Cherry Juice
Tart cherries are loaded with antioxidants that provide several benefits, including reducing cholesterol levels.
In a study conducted at the University of Michigan Cardiovascular Center, rats that received whole tart cherry powder as part of a high-fat diet had significantly lower levels of cholesterol than other rats.
Cherry juice is readily available at supermarkets and natural health stores.
However, you can also make your own at home using dried cherries or cherry powder.
Tomato juice
Tomatoes are rich in a compound called lycopene, which may improve lipid levels and reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol.
In addition, research suggests processing tomatoes into juice increases their lycopene content.
Tomato juice is also rich in cholesterol-reducing fiber and niacin.
A 2015 study found that 25 women who drank 280 ml of tomato juice daily for 2 months experienced a reduction in blood cholesterol levels. The participants were aged 20–30 years and had body mass index scores of at least 20.
Cocoa drinks
The main antioxidant in cocoa is called flavanols, which is a compound that may help to improve cholesterol levels by decreasing LDL cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol. Dark chocolate that contains more than 70% cocoa can help to improve heart health, blood pressure, and cognitive function.
Unfortunately, cocoa drinks are typically high in added sugars, which can have adverse effects on cardiovascular health and increase your risk for heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and high blood pressure.
Taking these drinks on a consistent basis while engaging in exercise can help you drink your way to better health!
Red wine
Now, we’re talking, lol! While too much alcohol can be detrimental to your health, some studies have found that moderate alcohol consumption may be protective against hypertension and may have protective cardiovascular health benefits.
However, most of these studies looked at blood test results, not the true impact on health, and there are negative health consequences to even minimal alcohol use that need to be weighed against the potential benefits.