Keep your freezer stocked with these dietitian-approved, fiber-rich veggies.
Your budget and heart health will thank you.
When it comes to managing high cholesterol, small dietary changes can help.
Photo:Getty Images. EatingWell design.
Eating enough vegetables not only helps reduce high cholesterol but can actually prevent the condition.
While you may think that fresh veggies are healthiest, think again.
Frozen veggies are just as nutritious.
Just 1 cup of frozen edamame contains 8 grams of fiber and 18 grams of plant-based protein.
Edamame is also a source of isoflavones, compounds in soy products that may help lower cholesterol levels.
it’s possible for you to find frozen edamame in the pod or shelled.
Consuming too much saturated fat is associated with high levels of LDL cholesterol (known as bad cholesterol).
If youre looking for ideas, try ourPea SouporSkillet Tuna Noodle Casserole.
Spinach
Frozenspinach is jam-packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants to promote heart health.
Spinach is high in insoluble fiber and can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
This leafy green is also high in antioxidants, particularly one of them.
Spinach is rich in a compound called lutein, an antioxidant known to help reduce inflammation.
Zajac suggests adding it to stews, soups or your morning eggs.
Added bonus: It goes great in yourmorning smoothie.
Each cup of frozen cauliflower has 3 grams of fiber10% of the Daily Value.
Try ourRoasted Buffalo Cauliflowerversion.
Broccoli
Like the other veggies on this list,broccoli is rich in fiber and micronutrients.
What makes it stand out is its glucosinolate content, particularly sulforaphane.
This is a phytochemical found almost exclusively incruciferous veggieslike broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.
In male participants, it reduced their total cholesterol by 10%.
Abag of frozen broccoli can be used in anythingfrom ramen noodles to mac and cheese to casseroles and more.
Brussels sprouts contain plant compounds, including kaempferol, which has both antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Kaempferol has been linked to promoting heart health and lowering cholesterol levels, says Sheth.
Roasting them is one of the best ways to enjoy them.
Browse through some Brussels sprouts recipes to spark inspiration.
Plus,they have unique benefitswhen it comes to cholesterol.
Other varieties shown to benefit cholesterol include enoki mushrooms, reishi mushroomsand portobello mushrooms.
Plus, they cost less and dont go bad after a few days.
With that in mind, you shouldnt think twice about stocking up on frozen veggies.
And if youre managing high cholesterol, we invite you to make room for these seven especially.
Theyre full of fiber, antioxidants and plant compounds that can help lower cholesterol and protect heart health.
Plus, they go well in everything from smoothies to casseroles to pasta dishes and more.
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