Cholesterol, High Cholesterol

Kale and cholesterol levels:

Thirty-two men, all with cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dL, were given 150 mL of kale juice per day for 12 weeks. Blood tests at the end of the study period showed a 27% increase in levels of HDL cholesterol, and a 10% decrease in levels of LDL cholesterol and in arterial plaque formation. In addition, the researchers reported the kale juice provided significant boosts to the levels of glutathione peroxidase and selenium, two high-powered antioxidants. Regular addition of kale juice to the diet, say the researchers, may be advisable to reduce risk of coronary artery disease. (127)

Broccoli sprouts and hyperlipidemia:

Broccoli sprouts may be produced by anyone at home in a Mason jar. They appear to have numerous potential health benefits and are an inexpensive way to add nutrition to the diet. Research is currently being conducted in a variety of potential treatments but is in early stages. Type 2 diabetes patients who received placebo, broccoli sprouts powder, 5 grams daily or 10 grams daily,  for 4 weeks showed the following results (129): Total cholesterol decreased 6.9%, 13.6%, and 10.1% respectively. LDL lowered by 3%, 14.9% and 10.5% respectively. HDL decreased by 13.9%, 13%,  and 4.6% respectively. Triglycerides lowered by 6.9%, 7.2% and 18.7% respectively. Fasting blood sugar reduced by 1%, 13.1% and 19.3% respectively. Please see the broccoli sprouts section for further information.