Basics Of A Low Cholesterol Diet

Bowl Of Cereal, Glass of Milk And Banana, Part Of Your Balanced Breakfast

Cholesterol is an organic substance that occurs naturally in the human body. It is necessary for basic physiological functions, such as the maintenance of cell membranes and the production of hormones. However, an excessive level of cholesterol in the blood is a condition that has been linked to disease of the heart and arteries.

A low cholesterol diet Is important

Since cholesterol is naturally synthesized in the human liver, avoiding excessive dietary intake of this waxy, fat-soluble substance is important. Therefore, the prudent approach is to use caution in the consumption of foods high in cholesterol and saturated fat, such as eggs, dairy and red meat. Many items at the market come with nutritional information printed on the packaging, including information about the quantities of cholesterol and saturated fat. The key number to minimize is the percentage of the daily recommended value per serving of these potentially damaging substances.

Many items at the market come with nutritional information printed on the packaging, including information about the quantities of cholesterol and saturated fat.

Good cholesterol and bad cholesterol

Medical experts now make a distinction between "good cholesterol" and "bad cholesterol." Cholesterol is fat-soluble, but it is not water-soluble. Therefore, it is transported through the blood stream by substances known as lipoproteins. These come in a "high-density" form (HDL) and a "low-density" form (LDL). It is now theorized that HDL may actually decrease the overall level of cholesterol in the blood. If that is true, then HDL may help to combat the building up of "plaque" on artery walls. Cholesterol contributes to this plaque buildup, which may lead to the blockage of arteries.

Cholesterol-friendly foods

Certain food categories have emerged in recent years as more likely to reduce overall cholesterol. This process may work by lowering LDL or increasing HDL. Oatmeal and certain kinds of beans, which are high in soluble fiber, may help to lower LDL. Olive oil, which was viewed with caution in the past, is now seen as a "good fat" and as an excellent substitute for butter. Omega-3 fatty acids, which are also "good fats," are found in salmon and walnuts.

Adhering to a low cholesterol diet is important and realistic. There are many sources of information available, such as physicians, web sites and nutritional labels. The good news is that many cholesterol-friendly foods are great-tasting.

HDL may actually decrease the overall level of cholesterol in the blood