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When you go to a restaurant, do you move the parsley on your plate out of the way? Well, you may be interested to know that this decorative garnish could actually hold benefits for your cholesterol and general health. And it?s not alone ? garlic, that mouth-watering spice, has been shown to offer cholesterol-boosting benefits, as well as those for general health. These two nutrients have even been shown to complement each other.
The herb known as parsley (it?s actually a part of the carrot family) has been shown to provide antioxidant benefits, and may provide protection against cancer and other chronic conditions. In fact, parsley may qualify as a ?chemoprotective? food, as it has been found to neutralize particular types of carcinogens (including various types of smoke).
Parsley is rich in vitamin C and folic acid, which may hold benefits for cholesterol health. Specifically, vitamin C has been shown in studies to increase ?good? (HDL) cholesterol levels, while also helping to lower blood pressure, and reduce heart disease risks. Meanwhile, the B vitamin folic acid may enhance cardiovascular health by playing a role in the process that renders homocysteine harmless. High levels of homocysteine, a potentially dangerous molecule, have been linked with increased risk of heart attack and stroke in people with atherosclerosis or diabetic heart disease.
As for garlic, studies show that this antioxidant may offer cholesterol benefits, as well. To begin with, garlic may reduce cholesterol levels in the blood by interfering with the liver?s metabolism. This is effective because the produces most of the body?s cholesterol, and then releases it into the bloodstream. In addition, garlic may lower levels of both LDL (?bad?) cholesterol and triglycerides, while also raising HDL (?good?) cholesterol levels.
Garlic may possess benefits for cardiovascular health, as well. It has been shown to reduce clotting, and contribute to reduced risk of both atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and heart attacks. Garlic may maintain arterial flexibility, and may also for improved circulation, which may lower blood pressure.
So, to answer the above question, ?Can parsley and garlic lower cholesterol?? The answer is ?yes,? and that?s good news for the health-conscious and those who are trying to be.
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