Cholesterol in the blood is transported in lipoproteins of low density (LDL), called “bad” cholesterol and high density (HDL), known as “good” cholesterol, according to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute of the United States.
This heart disease occurs because fatty deposits form in the blood vessels and over time, these deposits grow and make it more difficult for enough blood to flow through the arteries. “Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body and is needed to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help digest food.”, indicates the entity.
However, “bad” cholesterol is the product of a diet rich in fried foods, sweets, artificial products, fats or sausages, among others. The excess of this brings serious health problems as a consequence. Too high a level increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other problems.
For his part, HDL is responsible for collecting bad cholesterol from the blood and transporting it to the liver for elimination.. This is precisely what makes it ‘good’, since it fulfills the task of helping to eliminate excess bad cholesterol present in the body.
As it is, the portal better with health revealed three games that can be prepared at home and help control cholesterol levels in the body. These drinks are made from fruits and vegetables that contain essential vitamins and nutrients for the proper functioning of the body..
1. Apple, parsley and spinach juice
The soluble fiber contained in the apple acts by decreasing the absorption of fats that come from the diet. While the properties of parsley might improve blood sugar levels, maintain blood pressure and promote health. For its part, spinach provides a good portion of minerals and vitamins.
Ingredients
- 4 apples.
- 1 cup of raw spinach leaves (30 g).
- 1 handful of parsley.
Wash and prepare all the ingredients and then introduce them —separately— into a juice extractor. When you have them, mix them in a blender for one minute and drink a glass of the juice every day.
2. Cabbage and garlic juice
Both cabbage and garlic are known for their multiple health benefits and their ability to cleanse the body. This drink will help eliminate excess fat and cholesterol that can affect health.
Ingredients
- ½ medium cabbage.
- 2 cloves of garlic.
- ½ cup of water (120 ml).
Crush the garlic well and, later, put it in the blender together with the previously washed and chopped cabbage, and half a cup of water to make it easier to blend. Mix all the ingredients and consume a cup of this juice daily until cholesterol is lowered.
Its consumption should not be extended for a long time, since cabbage might weaken the thyroid gland.
3. Strawberry and citrus juice
This juice, in addition to its exquisite flavor and fighting bad cholesterol levels, also has properties that strengthen the immune system; it can even help you lose weight.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of strawberries (100 g).
- 2 oranges.
- 1 kiwi.
Extract the juice from the oranges, wash and peel the kiwi and prepare the strawberries. Subsequently, put all the ingredients in the blender and beat for a couple of minutes. Take daily, without straining and for two weeks.