Usually, a checkup for cholesterol will include four common indicators:

1. Total cholesterol
2. High-density lipoprotein (“good” cholesterol; HDL)
3. Low-density lipoprotein (“bad” cholesterol; LDL)
4. Triglycerides (neutral fats)

Elevated levels of cholesterol and triglycerides can increase the risk of heart attack and other cardiovascular events.

Risks Associated With Low Cholesterol

High cholesterol can be detrimental to health. Similarly, deficient cholesterol levels may lead to insufficient hormone secretion, memory impairment, palpitations, weakened immunity, and even an increased risk of dementia and cancer.

One study found that individuals with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels between 2.80 and 3.80 millimoles per liter (mmol/L) had the lowest risk of cancer, while those above or below this range had about a 50 percent higher risk. Although researchers are unsure if there is a causal relationship between cholesterol levels and cancer risk, this study serves as a reminder that lower cholesterol is not necessarily better.

Cholesterol is an essential component of cell membranes. Maintaining a balance of cholesterol levels in the body is crucial for cell function.

Check Cholesterol Level in 3 Seconds

Dr. Akiyoshi Uchiyama, a Japanese physician, shared a simple test to check cholesterol levels on a Japanese TV program.

Method: Lift your foot and pinch the skin at the back of the Achilles tendon. Measure the thickness of the pinched skin. If it exceeds 0.59 inch, be mindful of the possibility of high cholesterol and consider consulting a doctor for examination.

The skin on the back of the Achilles tendon is very thin and prone to injury. During the body’s natural healing process, cholesterol from the nearby blood vessels accumulates in this area, leading to thickening of the Achilles tendon.

Acupoint Massage for Improving Blood Lipids

Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) believes that high blood lipid levels are primarily caused by the accumulation of phlegm-dampness, which is metabolic waste. Frequent consumption of high-fat, high-salt foods, often associated with dining out, can lead to dysfunction in the digestive system and various organs.

One study indicated that stimulating the Fenglong acupoint (ST 40) has a positive effect in removing dampness and phlegm, as well as lowering blood lipids. In addition to reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, it can also decrease inflammatory factors.

Lecithin in Eggs May Help Lower Cholesterol

Eggs are a rich source of protein, yet many older people avoid consuming them due to their cholesterol content, especially in the yolks. However, despite being high in cholesterol, egg yolks contain lecithin, which can reduce cholesterol, lower blood lipids, and protect the liver. Given the richness of lecithin in egg yolks, there is no need for excessive concern about cholesterol intake.

Individuals with high cholesterol levels should limit their egg consumption to one daily. Additionally, it is advisable to cook eggs thoroughly for safety reasons.

Avoid These 2 Foods to Manage High Blood Lipids

Most cholesterol is produced by the body, with only a small amount coming from food. However, individuals with high blood lipids should be mindful of consuming the following two types of food, as they can further increase cholesterol levels:

• Foods high in trans fats: Trans fats can be found in things like processed drinks and puff pastries. Consuming these foods in excess can raise LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.
• Foods high in cholesterol: Some people enjoy eating organ meats, such as liver and kidneys, while others prefer seafood like crab roe, shrimp roe, fish roe, oysters, abalone, and clams. These foods are high in cholesterol, so it is best not to consume them excessively.

To manage cholesterol levels, it is crucial to reduce processed food intake, eat more natural foods, and choose healthy fats.

5 Cholesterol-Lowering Foods

A 2021 article from Harvard Medical School outlined 11 foods that can lower LDL cholesterol. Here are five foods from the list that are easy to buy and prepare:

1. Oats: Oats contain soluble fiber, which can lower cholesterol, making it an excellent breakfast choice.
2. Apples: The pectin in apples can reduce the time LDL cholesterol stays in the bloodstream.
3. Soybeans: The lecithin found in soybeans has a cholesterol-lowering effect.
4. Deep-sea fish: Deep-sea fish like mackerel, tuna, and salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce triglycerides in the bloodstream.
5. Nuts: Nuts are high in protein and zinc, which can lower LDL cholesterol and protect the heart.

Below, I will share a delicious soup recipe.

Pork Rib Soup With Seaweed and Daikon

I often cook this dish for my family at home. It is my granddaughter’s favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4.59 ounces (130 grams) seaweed
• 1 daikon radish
• 10.58 ounces (300 grams) pork ribs
• Salt to taste

Steps:

1. Bring a pot of water to a boil, blanch the pork ribs, then rinse them with clean water and set aside.
2. Peel and wash the daikon radish, cut it into pieces, and set aside.
3. Place the daikon radish pieces in a stewing pot, add the blanched pork ribs, and fill the pot about 80 percent full with water. Simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Add the seaweed to the pot and continue simmering for another 30 minutes. Season with salt according to taste, and it is ready to serve.

The polysaccharides in seaweed can lower cholesterol and triglycerides, maintaining cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of high blood pressure. Seaweed can also help remove waste from the blood and prevent blood clot formation, thereby protecting against arteriosclerosis. Research has shown that seaweed polysaccharides have the potential to treat atherosclerosis.

Radishes benefit the digestive system. They help empty the stomach earlier, which enhances the synthesis of adiponectin. Adiponectin aids in repairing blood vessels and preventing arteriosclerosis. Components in radishes also help improve various diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and liver injury.

Cassia Seed Honey Drink

This drink is not only beneficial for eye health but also helps in improving blood lipids.

Ingredients:

• 0.35 ounce (10 grams) roasted Cassia seeds
• 2 teaspoons honey

Steps:

1. Prepare a cup, place the roasted Cassia seeds in a filter bag, add warm boiled water, and steep for 2 minutes.
2. After it has cooled slightly, add 2 teaspoons of honey, stir well, and it is ready to drink.

Cassia seeds are good for the eyes and can inhibit cholesterol absorption in the gut, lowering blood pressure and lipids.

A 36-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial indicated that daily consumption of Cassia seed powder can reduce total cholesterol and LDL levels.