In order to keep your cholesterol levels in check, you need to consume foods that reduce the LDL levels. LDL is a harmful cholesterol-carrying particle that can result in atherosclerosis. The best way to reduce LDL levels is by consuming some foods that help lower cholesterol. Listed below are some of these foods. 1. Legumes and beans Also known as pulses, legumes are plant foods that include beans, lentils, and peas. They have high fiber content and are a rich source of protein and minerals. If you have high cholesterol levels, you can replace some processed meats and refined grains in your diet with legumes to lower your risk of developing heart diseases. In a study, it was found that consuming only 100 grams of legumes in a day can prove to be effective in lowering bad LDL cholesterol by approximately 6.6 mg/dl, compared to not eating them at all. Further, pulses are also great for weight loss and can prove effective even in diets that do not curtail the calories. Beans, such as kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans, contain soluble fiber. This is great for your heart health, and reduces the bad cholesterol levels in the body.