Cholesterol is a steroid lipid (fat) found in the blood and is necessary for proper functioning of cell membranes. Our bodies already manufacture all the cholesterol we need, so it is not necessary to consume more. High levels of cholesterol have been shown to increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Below is a list of foods which lowers the "bad" LDL cholesterol, while leaving the good HDL cholesterol largely unaffected.

1. Monounsaturated and Polyunsaturated Fats (Olive Oil, Canola Oil, Peanut Oil, Peanuts, Olives, Avocados)
Cholesterol Reduction: 18%



2. Bran (Oat, Rice)
Cholesterol Reduction: 7-14%



3. Flax Seeds
Cholesterol Reduction: 8-14%



4. Garlic
Cholesterol Reduction: 9-12%



5. Lycopene Foods
Cholesterol Reduction: 0-17%



6.  Walnuts and Pistachios
Cholesterol Reduction: 10%



7. Whole Barley
Cholesterol Reduction: 7-10%



8. Dark Chocolate and Plant Sterols
Cholesterol Reduction: 2-5%



9. Green Tea
Cholesterol Reduction: 2-5%



10. Almonds
Cholesterol Reduction: 7-10%