6 Foods To Raise Good Cholesterol

Research indicates that increasing levels of "good" cholesterol, or high density lipoproteins (HDL), could lower chances of heart attacks and strokes for people with diabetes.

The study followed subjects for eight years, tracking their HDL levels and hospitalizations. The results? "Patients whose HDL levels increased had 8% fewer heart attacks and strokes than patients whose HDL levels remained the same, while patients whose HDL levels decreased had 11% more heart attacks and strokes."

The outcome indicates that higher levels of HDL means fewer heart attacks and strokes. Luckily, there are some pretty delicious foods that lower bad cholesterol and raise good. The list as follows:

1. Eggs – Contrary to popular belief, eggs are are actually good for your cholesterol. Since eggs are low in saturated fats, they'll reduce your bad cholesterol and increase HDL levels. Just stay away from the bacon.

2. Fish and Shellfish – Most fish oils are composed of omega-3 fatty acids, and studies have shown that cultures with high consumption of omega-3 also have higher "good" cholesterol levels.

3. Olive Oil - Try replacing butter with olive oil, and the good fat will raise your HDL levels.

4. Walnuts, Almonds, and Other Nuts - Yes, nuts are high in calories, but most of the fat comes from good cholesterol. Studies also show that diets containing nuts can reduce "bad" cholesterol levels by up to 20 percent.

5. Cranberry Juice – Studies have shown that HDL levels can jump up 10 percent with an average of three glasses of cranberry juices a day. The higher concentration of pure cranberry, the better.

6. Green tea – Long touted as a health food, green tea can increase HDL levels while blocking the absorption of "bad" cholesterol and flushing it out of your system.

The Daily Byte is a regular column dedicated to covering interesting food news and trends across the country. Click here for previous columns.