The researchers noted: "Plant-based diets are associated with decreased total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, but not with decreased triglycerides.".

Meanwhile, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is considered the "good" kind because it may "protect against heart attack and stroke".

The charity explained: "High-density lipoprotein (HDL) carries low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, where the LDL is broken down and passed from the body.".

The NHS verified that total cholesterol levels should be five or below in the blood test results.

A total cholesterol blood test also measures non-HDL bad cholesterol and triglycerides.

A key dietary approach to lower cholesterol levels involves five portions of fruits and vegetables daily, wholegrain starchy foods at every meal, a variety of protein-rich plant foods, and healthy fats