Selecting Cholesterol-Free Foods
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Written by Administrator
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Monday, 11 February 2008 |
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The ill effects of bad cholesterol in the body are known to a majority of the people. The low-density lipoprotein (LDL) molecular deposits which thicken the walls of the arteries, constrict the flow of blood and affect the atherogenic status of the arterial walls - constitute the bad cholesterol. But all cholesterol is not bad. This non-soluble waxy substance has a positive role to play in building membranes, construction of cell walls, nerve sheaths, building membranes and also in the production of vital hormones.
High cholesterol in the body contributes directly to the dangerous diseases such as hypertension, atherosclerosis (deposition of fatty substances), fibrosis of inner arteries and other cardiovascular disorders.
Can we control or reduce high levels of cholesterol? There are some good eating habits and regular exercise that can ensure that the bad cholesterol is kept in check. On the other hand over indulgence or a uncontrolled life style can definitely increase the cholesterol levels in the body.
Good Eating Habits include:
1. Planned diet: One can create a whole week diet plan that includes vegetable rich recipes, good portion of fiber-filled fruits. Organically produced foods, either purchasesd or even home grown are much better. Chemicals treatment of food stuff can defitely result in increase in cholesterol levels. Complex carbohydrates must be preferred vis a vis the simple ones.
There is no shortage of fresh organic vegetables like lettuce in the supermarkets. The high fiber-content literally flushes out the LDL choleserol from the body, apart from the fact that these foods have very little or no content of cholesterol. On the other hand some foods are high in cholesterol, the LDL variety whose molecules directly enter the blood stream and settle down on the walls of the arteries.
2. Egg consumers must eat more of egg white and avoid the yolk, especially if they are LDL cholesterol susceptible. Baked food from whole wheat and noodles from cereals are the ideal food. The light beverages can be made by using unrefined sugar. Refining of sugar adds lots of unwarranted chemicals for whitening of the crystals to make them look better, but end up spoiling the health of the consumers.
3. The solvent properties of water are well known. Drinking more and more water, meeting the minimum daily water requirements of the body help in proper digestion of the food and maintain body equilibrium, cleanses the body and also improves blood circulation.
Eating natural, root crops and avoiding artificially flavored or baked foods which are laden with additives, color, is one good way of maintining optimum health.
5. Cholesterol levels in the body increase with the intake of artificial soft drinks with high sugar content, artificial colors and additives. Chocolate beverages, chemical drinks and strong coffee with caffeine are the high risk items for increased cholesterol.
Trans fats and hydrogenated fats used in baking or food processing are much more dangerous than the saturated fats of the same origin. Palm oils, especially olive oil, are good for preparation of food. The cost of the oil may be high, but the safety of family health far out weighs the price paid.
It is a good habit to get regular cholesterol count check up. This helps in avoiding the risk of fatal hypertension or stroke due to a sudden increase in cholesterol levels in the body.
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