Hi Amy,

You're right, eliminating wheat is not what results in reduced LDL levels.  It's replacing refined grains with high fiber options, especially soluble fiber, that leads to lower LDL.  For every 1-2 grams of daily soluble fiber intake, LDL (bad) cholesterol is lowered 1%.  Wheat is a controversial issue right now, so I'll be curious to see what other responses you receive.

Plant sterols are a good addition to your diet.  Eating 2 grams of plant sterols each day will on average reduce your LDL cholesterol 10%.

Plant sterols occur naturally in foods at low levels, so some foods (such as margarines, mayonnaise, and dairy based drinks) have been fortified. Here are some options you can use to increase your plant sterol intake:

Avocados, 1 small 0.13 grams
Corn Oil, 1 tablespoon 0.13 grams
Sunflower Seeds, 1/4 cup 0.19 grams
Oat Bar with plant sterols, 1 bar 0.4 grams
Orange Juice with plant sterols 1.0 gram
Vegetable oil spread with plant sterols, 1 tablespoon 1.0 gram

All the best,

Lisa Nelson, RD, LN

The Heart of Health - Heart Health and Weight Loss Tips