Proper Diets for Controlling or Lowering Cholesterol

Cholesterol is produced naturally in the body. Basically there are two types of cholesterol available: HDL commonly known as the good cholesterol and LDL mostly referred as the bad cholesterol. High level of cholesterol can cause serious health problems. One way to lower the cholesterol level is through proper diet. A good cholesterol controlling diet avoids certain foods and encourage vice versa. Below are some dietary suggestions which will help you out in lowering the cholesterol levels.

Avoid Foods that Contain Saturated Fat

Saturated fats produce Cholesterol. Therefore a good cholesterol controlled diet avoids foods which are rich in saturated fat and if at all possible completely eliminate them. If in some cases certain foods cannot be avoided totally, they should be taken in less quantity. Some of them are processed foods and high in fat animal products such as chicken skin or beef. Along with this saturated vegetable fats should be avoided. These things also elevate the level of bad cholesterol in the body.

Eat Foods Rich in Fiber

High fiber foods like bread especially those made from less refined flour are good for controlling and lowering the cholesterol levels. In addition to this you should eat more amounts of grains and cereals. These foods help in lowering the cholesterol level along with the calorie intake. Excess calories are naturally converted into fat by the body. And excess fat increases the risk of high cholesterol levels.

Eat More Vegetables and Fruits

Leafy vegetables such as cabbages, carrots, cucumbers and lettuce etc. should be included in the diet to reduce or control the cholesterol level. Along with these leafy vegetables fruits should also be consumed. Fat levels in these foods are negligible. These foods provide naturally occurring minerals and vitamins.

Eat Fish and Lean Meat

A cholesterol-controlling diet also features portions of fish. Fatty fish, like cod, salmon and tuna that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids a prominent nutrient necessary for the body to confiscate excess cholesterol. People who cannot avoid eating meat should go for lean meat such as poultry without the skin.

Eat the right quantities

It is not just about changing your health habits like removing or adding food items to your diet which is required for lowering the cholesterol levels. You should also make sure to eat these foods in right quantities. It is suggested to read the labels or refer the level of various nutrients in particular food before you consume it. Mainly 6- to 7-servings of cereals, 3- to 5-servings of vegetables, and 2- to 4-servings of fruits a day is good options to keep your cholesterol levels at bay.

Reference: Guliana_Gomez