Here are 5 tasty whole grain picks to help start lowering your blood cholesterol level:
Oats – This is one of the most well-known grains, especially for lowering cholesterol. Try old-fashioned, quick-cooking or steel-cut for a healthy, warming breakfast, or think outside the box with a savory recipe like this Spicy Oat Crusted Chicken with Sunshine Salsa.
Barley – This ancient grain isn’t hard to find and has been shown to help reduce cholesterol. Barley also happens to be the whole grain with the highest fiber. Opt for hulled barley instead of pearl barley to get the most health benefits.
Bulgur – This grain is actually wheat kernels that have been boiled, dried, cracked, and then sorted by size. You may recognize it from many Middle Eastern and Mediterranean recipes.
Millet – This traditional grain isn’t just a good ingredient for lowering cholesterol; it is also a good option for those who need to follow a gluten-free diet. Try this Millet Apple Raisin Cake for a sweet and easy recipe for your health.
Amaranth – If this grain is new to you, you’re going to want to get to know it. According to the Whole Grains Council, “Amaranth has shown potential as a cholesterol-lowing whole grain in several studies conducted over the past 14 years.” Find recipes and more about this more unusual grain here.
Find these and more whole grains to help lower cholesterol and boost heart health on WholeGrainsCouncil.org.