HDL Raising Foods

Although several foods have been shown to lower LDL cholesterol, there are no proven HDL raising foods. Foods containing omega-3 fatty acids (such as walnuts and fatty fish) won't increase HDL, but they have been shown to have heart benefits. Moderate amounts of alcohol may be HDL raising foods; however, drinking alcohol is not right for everyone.

 

Are There HDL Raising Foods?

Several foods have been shown to lower
 LDL cholesterol without having an impact on HDL.
 
(Click Cholesterol Lowering Food to learn more about these foods that lower LDL cholesterol.)
 
When it comes to "HDL raising foods," however, the data is not as clear. Search on the Internet for "HDL raising foods," and you will find any number of foods that will supposedly raise HDL. However, when you look at the research, you see that no foods have been shown to raise HDL on a consistent basis. Therefore, while there are foods that lower cholesterol and foods that lower a person's risk for heart disease, there are no HDL raising foods. Foods that offer heart benefits include:
 
Drinking alcohol in moderation may raise HDL; however, drinking alcohol is not right for everyone. For example, people with high triglycerides should avoid alcohol. Also, alcohol use can result in several different health problems, especially when too much alcohol is consumed.
 
(HDL Raising Foods Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD