The Right Diet for Lowering Cholesterol

Why Do You Have to Lower Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is actually good for the body at the right amounts. Lipids or fats in the bloodstream and the cells of the body have cholesterol which is reminiscent of wax. Cholesterol primarily functions to form cell membranes as well as develop hormones.

The human body can naturally produce cholesterol and the rest that are present in your system come from the food you eat, especially fatty and oily ones. High amounts of cholesterol are very unhealthy since it can clog blood vessels and impede circulation. High cholesterol levels are one of the main reasons people suffer from cardiovascular disease, stroke and heart attack. Other organs in the body may be affected as well such as the liver and the kidney. These all call for a sound diet for lowering cholesterol.

What Happens When You Lower Cholesterol?

When lowering cholesterol levels in your body, other factors are also reduced such as triglycerides, lipids and blood pressure. Triglycerides are sugars and starches present in the blood. High amounts of triglycerides can predispose you to developing ailments like diabetes, fatigability, insomnia and many more. Lipids can be both beneficial and dangerous to the body.

Good lipids help reduce fat by breaking them down while bad lipids increase fat and cholesterol in the body through formation. Blood pressure should be maintained at low but healthy levels. High blood pressure or hypertension can predispose you to heart and blood vessel conditions.

What You Need to Stay Away From

Fatty foods like chocolates, pizza, French fries and those with high MSG content should be avoided as much as possible. Basically, fried and sugary foods should be taken moderately since these can easily spike cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Processed goods and those full of preservatives and chemicals should also be avoided.

Smoking and alcohol reduces triglyceride-breaking enzymes and induces the liver to produce more unneeded triglycerides. The liver plays an important role in detoxification processes. When the liver is taxed by detoxifying foods or drinks high in trans fat, preservatives or alcohol, it cannot breakdown cholesterol effectively.

What You Need to Eat

Diet for lowering cholesterol should consist of foods which help breakdown fat and lower cholesterol levels. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential in lowering bad cholesterol in the body. Examples of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are sardines, mackerel and tuna. Soluble and insoluble fibers also aid much in digestion so excess fat and cholesterol can be flushed out of the body faster and more effectively.

Good fiber sources are fruits and vegetables, bran and oats. Instead of consuming unhealthy treats and junk foods, eat a piece of fruit. Most people continually increase cholesterol levels due to unconscious addiction to sugar. Fruits contain fructose which is a form of sugar but has lower glycemic index and does not cause hunger pangs and food cravings.

Moderation is the Key

Diet for lowering cholesterol does not necessarily mean that you have to eat very small portions of foods that are tasteless. You need to consider the type of food whether it can increase cholesterol levels. Check the total calories and fat content of your meals.

Next, you need to control the quantity. You may eat a favorite fatty snack in smaller portions or less frequently. It is important to balance and control every food you’re eating to ensure that your cholesterol remains at healthy levels. Schedule and plan your meals coupled with exercise for optimum results.