If you’re eating right and exercising, high cholesterol is not likely to be on your radar. For those that are not taking these preventive health measures, high cholesterol is a dangerous game. It’s a leading culprit with those patients that suffer heart attack or stroke. Also, it plays a factor in whether or not you encounter diabetes. If you want to avoid all of these deadly diseases, then you may consider starting to eat the following foods.

First, make sure you start eating salmon. Fish such as cod and salmon is stashed full of omega-3 fatty acids, which are good fats for your body. These fats actually fight against heart disease. It may even be possible that salmon fights against dementia because it’s a food that strengthens your brain. Omega-3 fats are also found in sardines in herring. It could raise your good cholesterol by 4 percent.

Also, chocolate is a good food to raise those bad cholesterol levels. You’ll want to choose bittersweet or dark chocolate; these are going to be the two healthiest. However, over 12 weeks, you could see a 24 percent increase in your good cholesterol. Hold up, however; this does not mean devour an entire bar of this delectable treat all at once. Most doctors will tell you to eat a few squares at a time. If you live in a warm climate, stick it in the refrigerator door; it will be ready when you return.

You may also want to start eating spinach. Spinach has a lot of the antioxidant lutein, which protects against blindness and macular degeneration. It’s also possible that spinach could be an armor against heart attacks and increase your good cholesterol. You could easily get spinach at the store and add to all your favorite dishes. Replace your iceberg lettuce with spinach in your salad, or add it to soups. There are various ways to enjoy this delicious vegetable and still eat healthy.

In addition, consider eating walnuts, almonds or your favorite nut variety. These nuts are low in unsaturated fats. They are also known to keep your blood vessels healthy. It only takes about an ounce and a half to reduce your chances of heart disease. Eat these once a day and you’ll see your cholesterol numbers drop over time. Be careful not to consume too many, however, because they are high in calories.

Finally, consider cooking with olive oil. This type of oil contains antioxidants that lowers your cholesterol. You can essentially replace it as your cooking oil. Throw out the vegetable oil or canola oil you have been using; olive oil is much better for your health. Sauté vegetables or brown meat in the skillet as you always would; you’re just cooking healthier now. Also, olive oil is a heart healthy food so it’s going to protect you against a heart attack.

If you’re looking to lower your bad cholesterol numbers, then start adding these foods to your diet. They are going to get back to being healthy and lengthen your life. It’s never too late to start turning your life around.