Beans and peas

• Beans and peas are easy to grow in most climates. They contain soluble fiber, which is known to help lower cholesterol levels.
  
  

Raspberries and other fruit

• Taking a wild raspberry or blackberry cutting and transplanting it into a mostly sunny spot in your yard can provide you with fruit from July through October. The high fiber and antioxidants in berries can contribute to lower cholesterol numbers.
  
  

Corn

• Corn has soluble fiber and plant sterols associated with lowering cholesterol. Gardeners in colder climates should look for corn varieties with short growing seasons.
  
  

Onions and leeks

• Onions and leeks are low-maintenance vegetable crops associated with lowering cholesterol.
  
  

Broccoli and cauliflower

• Almost all vegetables can be part of a heart-healthy diet that lowers cholesterol. Broccoli and cauliflower are nutrition-rich choices, providing fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
  
  

Considerations

• Gardening chores such as hoeing, raking and pulling weeds provide heart-healthy exercise. Gardening and working with plants also is a stress-buster for many, and a study at Oregon State University found that managing stress was linked with lower cholesterol levels.