For Cholesterol Control, Try Healthy Hummus

There's a certain bean that may have cholesterol-lowering powers. Where can you get it? Try a creamy side of hummus.

Research shows that chickpeas, the luscious legume that's pureed for hummus dips, could go a long way toward improving your cholesterol profile.

Gaga for Garbanzos
In a small study, people who ate roughly 25 ounces of chickpeas (also called garbanzo beans) per week for 12 weeks showed an improvement in their total cholesterol levels compared with when they ate a chickpea-free diet for 4 weeks. And that's not all: Their insulin levels also improved, and they lost a small amount of weight -- without dieting or exercising. All good reasons to fall in love with this legume!

Pass the Chickpeas, Please
Researchers think the fiber, protein, and polyunsaturated fatty acids in chickpeas should probably get the credit for the cholesterol improvements. Chickpeas are also a great source of vitamins, minerals, and phytoestrogens. For other cholesterol busting strategies, try these tips:

• Get seedy. Here's why sesame seeds aren't just for the birds.
• Think soy. Try these food groups that work best with soy to lower cholesterol.
• Nibble chocolate. Find out which type has cholesterol-fighting antioxidants.