Changing what you eat is one part of managing high cholesterol levels.
Dietary cholesterol was previously thought to significantly raise blood levels of cholesterol.
However, research has shown that it may not have as much of an effect as once thought.
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What Is Cholesterol?
Cholesterolis a waxy, fat-like substance found in the bloodstream and cells in the body.
Cholesterol is an essential part of the body, helping to make hormones, cells, and vitamins.
However, too much can lead to negative health consequences.
They are transported in the blood by VLDL.
Too much can increase the risk of heart disease.
Dietary patterns that promote heart health include the MediterraneanandDASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension)diets.
However, you won’t be successful unless you also limit or avoid certain unhealthy nutrients.
Below are nutrients that can have negative effects on cholesterol levels.
Saturated Fats
Saturated fatsare known as the less healthy fats.
This is because they can increase cholesterol levels.
Experts recommend avoiding trans fat in your diet as much as possible.
High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and heart failure.
Natural sugars are mostly found in fruits (as fructose), and dairy (as lactose).
Added sugars are often called empty calories because they add extra calories to foods and offer no beneficial nutrients.
What Conditions Can a Low Cholesterol Diet Benefit?
The same foods that help lower your cholesterol level may also benefit other aspects of your health.
Start small by choosing something you enjoy and slowly increase your time as you build up stamina.
Weight Management
Getting to or maintaining a healthy weight can help improve and manage cholesterol levels.
Overweight and obesity can increase triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels and also lower HDL cholesterol levels.
If you are overweight or have obesity, its important to follow a healthcare providers recommendations for losing weight.
A healthy weight loss goal is gradual and steady, about 1 to 2 pounds per week.
Get Enough Quality Sleep
Sleepis needed to help your body rest and recover from the day.
Medication
Sometimes, despite making lifestyle changes, cholesterol levels remain high.
In addition to continuing healthy lifestyle habits, you may be prescribed a medication to help lower your cholesterol.
A class of drugs calledstatinsare usually prescribed to help lower cholesterol.
Managing cholesterol is often multifaceted, with diet playing just one role.
Working closely with a team of healthcare providers can help you adjust your treatment plan as needed.
Choose foods that are higher in fiber and unsaturated fats.
When lifestyle modifications are enough, medications like statins can be prescribed to help decrease cholesterol levels.
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