Photo: EatingWell design. Key Takeaways
Rosemary is one of the best herbs to help reduce high cholesterol.
Antioxidants in rosemary may help prevent oxidation of LDL cholesterol.
Herbs can add flavor to meals instead of ingredients that are high in saturated fat.
Adding herbs and spices to your food is a wonderful way to elevate your sensory experience. Herbs not only contribute to the flavor, smell and appearance of your dishes but are also chock-full of antioxidants and fiber. Using herbs to replace saturated fat, such as butter, is a great strategy to help manage high cholesterol without sacrificing flavor. And while there isn’t enough scientific research to suggest that one culinary herb can reduce cholesterol, rosemary is our top pick for better cholesterol levels.
Rosemary, or Rosmarinus officianlis L., is rich in antioxidants, adheres to the Mediterranean diet (which is associated with reduced cholesterol levels) and pairs perfectly with extra-virgin olive oil, an unsaturated fat rich in monounsaturated fat that can assist in raising HDL (known as "good") cholesterol and lowering LDL (known as "bad") cholesterol.1
Read on to learn why we recommend rosemary for people managing high cholesterol and how to add it to your meal plan for extra nutrition, flavor and fun.
10 Foods That Lower Cholesterol Rosemary Health Benefits
Rich in Antioxidants Jordan Hill, M.C.D., RD, CSSD , says, “Rosemary is rich in antioxidants, which fight against inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, ultimately helping to prevent harmful oxidation of bad cholesterol, LDL.”In an older and very small study, researchers examined the effect of rosemary leaf extract on blood glucose and cholesterol levels. 48 participants were randomly assigned to take 2, 5 or 10 grams of rosemary leaf powder daily for four weeks. Blood samples were taken at the beginning and the end of the study, and they found that the participants who took the largest dose (10 grams) had significantly lower LDL levels and higher levels of HDL. Researchers believe this could be due to rosemary’s antioxidative properties. It contains certain phytochemicals and phenolic compounds, including carnosol, carnosic acid, rosmanol, 7-methyl-epirosmanol, isopropanol, rosmadial […]
The #1 Herb for Better Cholesterol Levels, According to Dietitians
