Specifically, these diets were associated with a 7-percent reduction in total cholesterol and a 10-percent decrease in LDL cholesterol. How plant-based diets lower cholesterolMultiple studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of plant-based diets in reducing cholesterol. Research published in The Journal of Nutrition suggests that consuming 2 grams of plant sterols daily can lower LDL cholesterol by 10 percent. Key plant-based foods for lowering cholesterolIncorporating specific plant-based foods into one’s diet can effectively reduce cholesterol levels. Soy products: Foods such as tofu, tempeh, and edamame contain soy protein, which has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol.