|
In the fight against high cholesterol, we're constantly reminded to watch what we eat. But cholesterol is found in so many different kinds of food, knowing just what to watch out for can sometimes get a little tricky.
There are basically three types of cholesterol-the "bad" LDLs that clog arteries, the "good" HDLs, and blood triglycerides. So just because a food has cholesterol doesn't mean you shouldn't eat it. Fish, for example, contains Omega-3 fatty acids, a good source of HDLs, which can help lower your disk of heart disease.
Some food products, like eggs, are a bit of a conundrum. While some insist that eggs are perfectly healthy, others point out its cholesterol content. Others argue that the egg whites are okay but the yolks are bad.
In cases like this, it might seem a little hard to choose what to eat and what to stay away from. A key is to understand that many food items are actually healthy by themselves-it's the food preparation that's the culprit. For example, potatoes and onions are quite good for you, but greasy French fries and onion rings? Not as much.
It's always a good idea to steer clear of deep-fried foods, or those containing a lot of oil or margarine. These often contain high amounts of saturated fat and trans fatty acids, which can upset the equilibrium of good and bad cholesterol in your body. Red meat, poultry, and dairy are often rich in cholesterol, so it's a good idea to eat these in moderation, stay away from the fatty portions, and go for the healthiest cooking methods. As much as possible, choose fresh, steamed, or grilled food instead of fried.
In other cases, it's not just the main dish that you have to think about. You might be eating a healthy, grilled main dish, but also consider your side dishes, desserts, and even sauces-they may be deep fried or contain a lot of saturated fat, and your meal might be a lot more unhealthy than you realize.
With all this to consider, eating to combat cholesterol might seem like a daunting task. The nice part about it is that once you've understood what you need to avoid, you may realize that you don't even have to cut out your favorite food groups from your diet-you just have to mind how they're cooked and what you eat them with. Besides, considering that the reward for figuring it all out can be a healthier, longer life, the challenge is well worth it.
|
