Foods high in cholesterol may contribute to health risks associated with heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and stroke. Some foods contain large amounts of a waxy substance called cholesterol. This substance is produced within the body, by the liver, usually in substantial amounts. If an individual has been diagnosed with high cholesterol their physician will probably ask them to make dietary changes by encouraging them to eat foods to lower cholesterol. Make a grocery list with healthy choices and do some research online for recipes that will give some assistance on ways to cook these items.
Some individuals have an inherited tendency towards developing high cholesterol. These individuals may require prescription medication to provide the benefit needed in lowering blood count levels. Physicians usually prescribe medication to individuals with extreme blood count levels as well as suggest dietary changes and eating foods to lower cholesterol. It will greatly depend upon the weight of the individual and other health concerns as to the extent of the treatment.
To minimize risk factors associate with high cholesterol it is important to evaluate eating habits and make appropriate changes in diet and eliminate foods high in cholesterol. It’s is a good idea to get a checkup with a physician at least once a year to check blood count levels since there aren’t usually any symptoms associated with it. Since increased levels are associated with major health issues such as heart disease, and stroke it is wise to keep the numbers under control. Lab tests for blood levels will indicate a total count, LDL, HDL, and total triglycerides. The LDL count shows the bad levels in the blood and an HDL counts shows the good levels in the blood. Triglycerides are another form of fat found in the blood that can give indications of a predisposition to diabetes and heart disease as well. Total blood level numbers over 200mg/dL are borderline high and over 240mg/dL are considered high.
Some contributing factors of high cholesterol include diet, weight, and physical activity; these are changeable and should be altered appropriately. Other contributing factors include age, gender, and heredity; these are uncontrollable and unalterable. Factors that may aggravate and magnify the situation include smoking tobacco, drinking alcohol, and eating foods high in cholesterol. Avoid dairy items such as butter, cheese, ice cream, and whole milk, as well as, liver and other organ meats, egg yolks, and fried foods. Choose snacks wisely because many choices may contain large amounts of fat and sugar. Food from the earth is inevitably the best choice. “He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth” (Psalm 104:14).
Add some healthy choices to a diet by eating foods to lower cholesterol. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables of all kinds but especially those high in fiber. Some of these are apples, carrots, dried beans and peas, oats, and barley. Flaxseed oil is also highly recommended for lowering blood count levels since it has increased fiber and provides protein, potassium, and beta-carotene. Flaxseed oil can be purchased at a health or vitamin store and should be kept refrigerated to prevent spoilage. It is also recommended for use in baked items such as quick breads, muffins, and pancakes or in salads.
Eating garlic and onions is beneficial to health and included in foods to lower cholesterol. Add spice to any dish by adding garlic and onions; doing so will provide health benefits and enhance flavor to a meal. Substitute soy products for high-fat dairy products to provide health benefits by lowering blood count levels and providing protein. Instead of eating snack foods high in cholesterol choose grapes and oranges that help to raise the HDL levels and provide added fiber to the diet.
Many sites online offer tips on many different types of foods choices as well as recipes. They also provide helpful information on foods to lower cholesterol and the content within many different items. When shopping for items at the grocery store pay attention to dietary labels on items. Look for items that are low in saturated fat but high in monounsaturated fat such as olive and canola oil. Pasta, potatoes, and rice are good sources of vitamins and minerals; during preparation don’t add butter, whole milk, or rich sauces to them or they become foods high in cholesterol.
Exercise provides health benefits in many ways. Taking off those few extra pounds might make a big difference on blood count levels and the quality of life. Take a walk everyday or go to the local gym and workout. Hire a personal trainer to help with support and advice on how to avoid injury when exercising. Exercise even in moderation helps with energy levels and depression. Checking with one’s doctor before beginning an exercise program is a good idea, especially if there are other health concerns.