We have all heard that high cholesterol is bad for you. It can increase your risk of heart disease. Elevated cholesterol levels over time can even cause heart attacks. But all cholesterol is not bad for you. In fact, some cholesterol is even necessary for the body. It helps build healthy cells. Experts have classified cholesterol into two main categories: high density lipoproteins(HDL), and low density lipoproteins (LDL).
Levels of LDL cholesterol, is affected by several factors, including:
- liver or kidney disease
- diabetes
- pregnancy
- thyroid/gland problems
- some types of drugs
There are no symptoms of elevated LDL levels. The only way to know for certain, if you have high LDL cholesterol is a blood test. LDL comes from substances that comprise the natural oils and fats of certain foods. These are called triglycerides. A spike in triglycerides within the blood can increase the risk of strokes or heart attacks. Luckily, there are many things you can do to maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The most important thing, however, is to consume heart-healthy foods which means having a low cholesterol diet. You do not have to give up foods that are delicious, for bland or flavorless meals. Here are some food recommendations to incorporate into your diet to help you to maintain a low cholesterol diet and lower bad cholesterol and triglycerides:
1. Fatty fish vs. red meat
Salmon or herring is a much better choice than red meat. The omega 3 fatty acids they contain can reduce blood pressure. If you are vegan or vegetarian, then try eating flaxseeds or consuming more nuts such as walnuts, almonds, pecans, and macadamia nuts.
2. Croutons vs. nuts and seeds
We love our croutons on salad, but those tasty morsels come with a price. They can elevate LDL. A good alternative is to use nuts and/or seeds. Try sprinkling some almonds or sunflower seeds over your salad. You may find a new flavor you enjoy and more importantly, you will help your heart.
3. Red wine over beer
A nice glass of red wine not only relaxes you at the end of a work-filled day, but it is tied to lower risk of heart disease .
4. Olive oil or butter
A kind of butter made with olive oil is not only healthier, it rivals butter in taste. It has considerably less saturated fat within the same amount. It is a better choice when you are trying to eat healthy.
5. Balsamic for bottled salad dressing
A balsamic salad dressing is healthier, in general, because it contains less fat, less sodium, and less sugar. Some balsamic salad concoctions contain only a few ingredients, like vinegar, garlic, olive oil, or spices.
Making healthy choices doesn’t have to mean sacrificing taste. It does mean choosing foods that are healthier and have high HDL cholesterol levels. Eliminate foods from your diet that are known to increase LDL and triglycerides. Also, look to these naturally cholesterol lowering foods as extra support to reduce triglycerides and bad cholesterol, along with prescription medications (i.e., praluent and repatha). You owe it to yourself to provide your body with the natural resources to give you the best chance to live a healthy life. Talk to your doctor today about cleaning up your diet and ask about how to take advantage of repatha online savings, and repatha prescription discount coupons.
