A desirable HDL level is anything greater than 60 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
A fast track to boosting HDL includes quitting smoking and increasing physical activity.
Here are the foods that raise HDL cholesterol.
Shutterstock
One2013 studyfound that consuming blueberries in tandem with exercise can increase HDL levels even more than exercise alone.
Avocado
As if we needed another excuse to grab a second scoop of guac at the tailgate?
Avocado brownies anyone?!
Shutterstock
What does this mean in terms of animal protein?
Chicken is a versatile choice that doesn’t have to be boring or dry.
Check outour 35 healthy ways to prepare this bird!
Shutterstock
Are you pouring up a glass of OJ in the morning?
Is your daily caffeine fix a fountain coke at the local gas station?
What about that fruity cocktail tempting you at happy hour?
Shutterstock
Salmon
Eating seafood twice per week is a surefire way to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
One tip: fish should be purchased wild and sustainably caught.
When you substitute regular wheat flour for almond flour, true magic happens in the kitchen.
Shutterstock
For a simple almond flour mug cake recipe click here, don’t missWholesome Yum’s recipe.
Raspberries
Nothing says summer quite like a box of juicy raspberries.
Add fresh or frozen to a smoothie, or enjoy all by their lonesome for a refreshing pick-me-up.
Shutterstock
Flaxseed
Fatty fish is not the only source of heart-healthy omega-3s!
In fact, flaxseed is one of the richest sources of the anti-inflammatory fat.
Instead of opting for white, refined noodles, choose the less-processed, vitamin-enriched counterpart: whole grain pasta.
Caroline Attwood/Unsplash
Department of Health and Human Services.
One serving also packs 17 grams of protein per cup!
A desirable ratio is anything below 5:1, but a ratio of 3.5:1 indicatesvery minimal cardiovascular risk.
Shutterstock
Look for a product with a minimal amount of sugar and at least 5 grams of fiber per serving.
Yogurt
The Greeks had it right with this creamy and sumptuous delicacy.
Skip unnecessary added sugars, which are linked to metabolic syndrome, by buying plain varieties.
Shutterstock
Cheese
Cheese lovers unite!
Blogger Chocolate Covered Kate has a greatrecipe.
Oatmeal
No, carbohydrates are not the enemy to fitness goals.
Shutterstock
Plus, when it comes to heart health, oatmeal is a humble workhorse.
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Shutterstock
Deryn Macey/Unsplash
Shutterstock
