If you are struggling with trying to get your cholesterol down, lower cholesterol doesn’t always need to come from a pill.  It’s possible to lower your cholesterol without medication; it just requires dietary and lifestyle changes, a much better option in my book. So swap out the cholesterol raising bacon and butter for cholesterol lowering foods.

Try these cholesterol-lowering foods:

• Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, which can reduce the absorption of cholesterol into your bloodstream. Eating a warm bowl of oatmeal in the morning helps lower the LDL “bad” cholesterol.

• Fatty fish-eating fatty fish such as wild salmon, tuna, sardines, halibut and mackerel are all high in omega 3 fatty acids. Individuals who eat a diet high in omega 3 fatty acids can lower their triglyceride level and raise their HDL “good” cholesterol. American Heart Association recommends eating fatty fish at least twice a week.

• Nuts and seeds contain healthy fats that help lower cholesterol. Eat a handful of nuts such as almonds, walnuts or pistachios. Sprinkle flaxseed and sesame seeds over low fat cottage cheese, greek yogurt or oatmeal.

• Avocados and olive oil are a good source of monounsaturated fatty acids that can help lower LDL “bad” cholesterol. Try using avocado as a sandwich spread instead of mayonnaise. Make homemade salad dressings with extra virgin olive oil and drizzle over salads and cooked veggies.