Cholesterol Diets - Diet For Reducing CholesterolCholesterol is a necessary fatty substance in the blood that is critical for humans because it aids in repairing cells, producing sex hormones (such as testosterone and estrogen), converting bile acids for digestion of foods, and helps to produce vitamin D in the body. The liver along with other organs are responsible for manufacturing cholesterol. Large amounts of cholesterol are found in the nerve tissue and brain. In the blood, high cholesterol conditions are considered to be unhealthy. Diseases such as atherosclerotic plaque and coronary artery disease can develop. When cholesterol builds up in the body, the flow of blood is inhibited to and from the heart. Diets for cholesterol conditions: Foods rich in animal fats, organ meats, egg yolks, dairy products, fried foods, butter/margarine, etc are rich sources of cholesterol for the body. To lower your cholesterol, eating a diet containing extremely low value or no cholesterol at all is advised. A low cholesterol diet must contain the following: Low cholesterol Low sodium content Low in saturated fats Fiber rich Rich in complex carbohydrates Low amounts of refined sugar and alcohol Omega-3 fatty acids can help to lower cholesterol in the blood (including deep-sea fish, mackerel, tuna, and salmon) Special Cholesterol Diet Considerations: Eating fish 3 or more times per week is recommended. All high sources of sodium should be avoided. Complex carbohydrates include pasta, potatoes, and whole grains. Fiber is essential everyday. Fast food restaurants should be avoided. Other Recommendations: Regular exercise is excellent for helping cholesterol conditions Monitoring your cholesterol regularly is strongly recommended. |