High cholesterol levels are associated with heart disease, strokes, high blood pressure and some liver diseases. So it’s extremely important to monitor your cholesterol levels and take steps to manage. But how?
Our cholesterol levels are determined by two factors, our internal biochemistry and the food that we eat. You can’t do much about how much cholesterol your body naturally produces without taking medications. However, you have complete control over your diet. So here are three ways to stay in control of your cholesterol
Load Up on Foods that Lower Cholesterol
Most people don’t know that there are foods that soak up cholesterol and help it pass through your system. In fact, there are some foods that lower the level of cholesterol in your blood. For example: oats. Eating oats breaks down the low-density cholesterol in your blood, also known as “bad cholesterol”. Other high fibre foods have a similar effect, like bread or beans. The fibre in these foods also absorb a lot of the cholesterol from other foods you’ve eaten and help push it through your system. This stops the bad substances being absorbed through your digestive tract
So how can you work this into your diet? Start by adding high fiber foods into your family favorites. For example, mix beans in your chili beef to get a healthier dish. Eat apples along with yogurt to reduce how much fat is absorbed through your digestive tract. Add barley to your soups. It’s a really simple and effective way to ensure you’re eating the right foods, without dramatically changing your diet
Cut Back on the Wrong Food
Fatty and processed foods are bad for your cholesterol levels. If you’re told that you need to lower your cholesterol levels, it’s obvious that you need to cut back on certain foods like fried chicken and fatty cuts of meat. But what many people don’t realize is the amount of fats that come from frying food at home. Try and cut back on using cooking oil and try stir-frying or baking your foods instead.
Eat More of the Right Foods
The best things you can eat to stay in control of your cholesterol levels are the things you should be eating every day, like more fruits and vegetables. But make sure you eat your produce the right way, not drowning in high fat salad dressing. Eat more lean meats or beans, but don’t go overboard on cheese and high-fat dairy foods. If you want more information on how to control your cholesterol or would like to consult with a dietitian about lifestyle changes, investigate what is included in your health insurance coverage. Or consider switching Health Insurance Australia plans to one that gives you more resources to reduce your cholesterol levels and improve your health without the need of medication.
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