LDL Cholesterol Levels: How to Improve Them at the Farmer's Market

Yesterday, I stopped in at a local farmer’s market—and the first things that caught my eye were the ripe juicy tomatoes.  They were big, red, and very aromatic.  The cardiology nurse in me was also thinking about how good they are for your heart.

The lycopene in tomatoes helps to inhibit LDL cholesterol oxidation.  Plus, eating a diet rich in vegetables is good for your LDL cholesterol levels in general.  Lycopene is also good for your eyesight, and ladies it can even help to shield us from breast cancer and protect the men we love from prostate cancer!

So I bought some of those tomatoes, along with an eggplant, zucchini, an onion, a bunch of fresh basil, and mushrooms—and made ratatouille for dinner.  I combined a bit of jarred garlic and olive oil in a pot, and let it simmer for about two minutes.  Then, I sliced up and added the other vegetables and cooked it on medium heat for about 30 minutes.  My kitchen smelled like an Italian restaurant! A little basil (or parsley if you prefer) to garnish, and voila!

I served it with baked salmon and whole grain bread, plus a glass of red wine (also heart-healthy).  Boy was that delicious!  It was also easy—and benefits my LDL cholesterol levels, and more.  Do you have any favorite farmer’s market recipes?  I’d love to get some new ideas from you.

For more delicious recipes and information on reducing LDL cholesterol levels, visit www.drsinatra.com.