For those with high cholesterol, often times diet and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce cholesterol levels. There are several food types that have cholesterol lowering properties. Eating a balanced diet that includes these foods can help improve one's health.Fish and omega-3sOmega-3 fatty acids have known properties that can reduce cholesterol, reduce blood pressure and decrease the risk of hardening arteries. Many fatty fish species contain high levels of omega-3s, such as tuna, lake trout, salmon, halibut and mackerel. Physicians recommend eating at least two servings of fatty fish per week to receive the greatest benefits.High-fiber foodsSoluble fiber can help to reduce the amount of low-density lipids (LDLs) in the bloodstream. It does this by decreasing the amount of LDLs that the body can absorb as they pass through the digestive tract. Many delicious foods contain high levels of soluble fiber and eating them is a great option, especially for breakfast. Oatmeal, oat bran, Pears, Prunes, kidney beans and barley all contain high levels of soluble fiber. It is recommended that people eat 5 to ten grams of fiber per day.Soluble fiber is one of the most effective ways to keep cholesterol under control. Many common foods, especially those eaten at breakfast, like oatmeal, contain high levels of soluble fibers. Olive oilOlive oil is a great substitute for animal fats, such as butter or lard. The mix of antioxidants in olive oil can reduce LDLs in the bloodstream, but does not remove high-density lipids, or good cholesterol, from the body. The downside is that olive oil is high in calories, so it is important not to consume more than two tablespoons per day.NutsNuts are ideal for adding protein to the diet and providing the benefits of a high polyunsaturated fat content. These fats work to keep blood vessels healthy and prevent clotting. Almost all types of nuts contain these fats, including walnuts, peanuts, pecans, pine nuts, almonds and hazelnuts. It is suggested that people eat nuts in their natural form to avoid adding excess salt and sugar to their diet.There are many delicious foods that also have cholesterol-lowering properties. They are easy to incorporate into a diet but like any other food, only eat them in moderation. Before making any major changes to a diet, it is best to consult a physician who has experience with treating high cholesterol.