Weight 038; Watch

Diet also affects antioxidant levels depending upon Vitamin A, E, C, beta-carotene and anti-clotting/anti-inflammatory properties of blood. Studies show that as much as 80 per cent of heart disease and 90 per cent of diabetes is due to unhealthy eating and other lifestyle factors.

Diets rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts and dairy products can lower blood pressure and 8220;bad cholesterol8221; as effectively as many drugs.

Foods that lower cholesterol

8226; Wholemeal Bread, porridge, oats, oat bran,

8226; Bengal gram, beans and lentils

8226; In veggies, onion, garlic, and pectin-rich vegetables like gourd, lady8217;s finger, pumpkin

8226; In fruits, apples, pears, figs, prunes, dried fruits

8226; Nuts and oil seeds

8226; Fish oil, cold pressed vegetable oils except palm and coconut oil

Also keep in mind

8226; Avoiding simple sugars, refined carbohydrates

8226; Avoiding excess salt and caffeine

8226; Alcohol, drunk in moderation, increases 8220;good cholesterol8221; and has 8220;anti-clotting8221; benefits. But alcohol can also increase blood pressure, raise triglyceride levels, body weight and cause and hypoglycemia in diabetics. Teetotalers are not advised to drink and for those who drink8212;stick to two small drinks on alternate days.

8226; And exercise regularly