How Low Cholesterol Diets Promote Health?

Answer 1

There are a number of low cholesterol diets and foods that can be used to help maintain good health, and even in some situations reduce the amount of low density lipoproteins (LDL) in the body, also known as bad cholesterol. Low cholesterol diets can work in several ways to help keep a person healthy. First, lowering the intake of LDL cholesterol will reduce the amount that the body has to deal with. Second, some diets promote foods that actually prevent absorption of LDL into the blood. Lastly, a good diet that is low in bad cholesterol will make the cells and organs in the body healthier, allowing them to more effectively deal with any problems that might arise.

LDL cholesterol is produced naturally in the body, just like its counterpart high density lipoprotein (HDL), which is sometimes called good cholesterol. Cholesterol in general is required by the body to create chemicals that are necessary for normal functioning. Unfortunately, LDL in large quantities has a detrimental effect. It can enter the blood stream and cause a buildup of a hard substance called plaque. The plaque can accumulate to create a blockage in the veins and arteries, potentially leading to a heart attack. Alternately, the mass of plaque might become dislodged and damage internal organs, or make its way to the brain where it can cause a stroke.

Low cholesterol diets attempt to stop the absorption and buildup of LDL cholesterol. Foods that contain good HDL cholesterol such as olive oil will increase the level of HDL. HDL, in turn, reduces the amount of LDL since it binds with loose LDL molecules in the blood. Although, it should be noted that HDL is still cholesterol and can be harmful in very large amounts.

Some foods that are included in low cholesterol diets such as salmon, sardines, mackerel, and other fish contain omega-3 fatty acids that actually reduce blood pressure over time, making it harder for plaque deposits to form. Foods that contain soluble fiber such as oats or Prunes will actually remove bad cholesterol from the blood when eaten regularly. There are also foods that have had beneficial plant sterols added, such as yogurt, which will prevent some amount of LDL from being absorbed into the blood in the first place.

Finally, sometimes eating habits have to be changed even when on one of the many low cholesterol diets. This is because without moderation, even good foods can eventually be harmful or cause problems. It is also important to pair a diet that is low in cholesterol with regular exercise, which can help to manage existing levels of cholesterol and encourages the body to produce more HDL.