LowerHighCholesterol.Net

Julia Carmichael asked:


The liver makes most of the cholesterol in the body, but dietary cholesterol plays an important role in controlling all the cholesterol levels in the body. The levels include the total cholesterol and the good and bad cholesterol.

Good cholesterol, the HDL (high-density lipoproteins), protects the heart by helping to transport excess cholesterol from the arteries back to the liver for breakdown and disposal.

On the other hand, the bad LDL (low-density lipoproteins) cholesterol builds up plaque that clogs the arteries and hinders normal blood flow.

A low cholesterol diet should not only reduce the total cholesterol and LDL levels, it must also increase the HDL level at the same time.

Dietary Cholesterol

The main sources of dietary cholesterol are animal-derived foods rich in cholesterol and saturated fats, such as organ meats, egg yolk, butter and other full-cream dairy products. Trans fats (as those in deep-fried foods) and hydrogenated fats (as those in bakery items) are the other culprits.

In a low cholesterol diet, you would replace saturated fats with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats such as oils of olive, canola, peanut, flaxseed, sunflower, and so on.

Fats to Avoid

As far as trans fats and hydrogenated fats are concerned, it is advisable to avoid them as far as possible, which means taking away French fries, crispies, cakes, cookies, pastries, and ice-creams from the low cholesterol diet menu.

Recommended Low Cholesterol Diet

Foods that should make an essential part of a low cholesterol diet must come from the following food groups:

Cereals and grains: Whole-wheat bread, unpolished rice, and oats-based cereals are foods that are rich in fiber, which helps sweep away the bad LDL cholesterol from the blood. In a low cholesterol diet it is essential to replace white bread and other refined, polished grains with whole-grain varieties.

Nuts and seeds: Nuts like almonds, peanuts, walnuts and seeds like flaxseeds are rich in antioxidants (such as vitamin E and selenium) and in good fats, called omega-3 fatty acids, which protect the heart by increasing the HDL level.

Nuts and seeds are also a rich source of fiber. The best way to include flaxseeds in a low cholesterol diet is by grinding them and sprinkling over cereals and salads.

Fish: Non vegetarians can choose to have a fatty cold-water fish such as salmon or tuna twice a week to get a rich supply of omega-3 fatty acids.

Beans and legumes: Beans, legumes and lentils are rich sources of protein and fiber and are low in fat content. They make an ideal substitute for meats. Soy cheese (tofu) is another good meat substitute in a low cholesterol diet.

Fiber-rich foods: Foods like oats, barley, psyllium, apples, pears, prunes, kidney beans and Brussels sprouts are rich in soluble fiber, which acts like a broom to sweep out the cholesterol from the arteries.

Fruits and vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables are loaded with fiber, antioxidants, flavanoids and plant sterols, all of which help lower cholesterol and raise HDL level. Some 8-10 servings of fruits and vegetables should be included in the daily low cholesterol diet.

Garlic, onion: Some people believe garlic regulates liver functioning and dissolve the cholesterol deposits in the arteries. Others swear that including just half a raw onion in the daily low cholesterol diet can lower LDL level and increase HDL level.

Following a low cholesterol diet, with regular exercise, and cutting out on meats, full-cream dairy products, deep-fried foods and bakery items, can go a long way in lowering total cholesterol. Similarly, it lowers LDL cholesterol levels while raising the HDL level.



Lower High Cholesterol

Gloria Gangi asked:


It is known that medication and drugs can be harmful to our bodies so it is natural that people prefer to learn how to lower their cholesterol naturally. When using natural methods we are learning how to take control of the problem ourselves in a more efficient way. To lower your cholesterol naturally it is important and beneficial for your life and general health. It reduces heart disease and also any other diseases which may not be good for your body.

Lower Your Cholesterol Levels With A Change Of Diet

Getting rid of excessive body fat deposits in your body which can cause you harm is important. By going on a diet to lower cholesterol is one of the best ways you can lower cholesterol naturally.

You need to begin by looking at a diet that is low in saturated fats, sodium and some carbohydrates. By including these foods in your diet you will not only lower your cholesterol levels but be able to maintain your levels as well. Look at adding omega 3 into your diet as well as it helps to reduce cholesterol as well as control bad cholesterol.

So when looking at your choices in foods you will want to avoid the foods which contribute to cholesterol such as beef, high fat dairy foods and most oils. Also look at your alcohol intake as this will effect your levels as well.

Adding Exercise Into Your Life

A good diet is important in lowering your cholesterol levels but the inclusion of exercise is a must. By exercising you can effectively remove the fat that accumulates in the body. You can also increase your cardiac capacity of your heart which in turn helps with your blood circulation. An effective exercise plan need not mean you send countless hours working out at the gym. All you need to do is go for a 30 minute walk on a daily basis to help keep the fat levels down. Look at swimming and other exercises but remember to consult your doctor first to see which exercise is best suited to you and your condition

The two methods on how to lower cholesterol are best used when your cholesterol levels have not reached high levels. For people that have extremely high levels it is best first to consult your doctor. They will advise the correct course of action for you whether it be a change in diet, increase in exercise or the inclusion of medication or may be a combination of them all.



Chemotherapy

Albert Lee asked:


A sample diet to lower cholesterol is important to determine how your body will respond to various cholesterol-lowering techniques suggested by experts. Basically, a sample diet to lower cholesterol involves avoiding certain foods while increasing the intake of others. Combining these techniques can lead to significant decreases in blood cholesterol levels, even reaching up to 20%.

1. Breakfast

A good breakfast for your sample diet to lower cholesterol should include oatmeal or oat bran and fruits. You can alternate it with cereal and low-fat milk or whole grain products, such as wheat bread. If you use butter or margarine, you may want to replace it with sterol-fortified margarine, instead. For the drinks, you can take sterol-fortified juices, skim milk or water. Vitamin supplement may also be taken in the morning.

2, Lunch

Your lunch for a sample diet to lower cholesterol should include the fatty fish, such as tuna, mackerel or salmon, which is broiled, steamed or grilled. It can be alternated with lean meat, with fat less than 10%, or skinned poultry. These must be prepared with minimal cooking oil, such as canola oil. You may opt to combine them with rice or whole grain bread, and vegetables. Fresh or canned fruits, or low-fat yogurt, may be taken for dessert.

3. Snacks

Health snacks that you can include in your sample diet to lower cholesterol include unsalted nuts, such as walnuts and almonds, and seeds, such as sunflower seed. Soy products, such as soy burger, are also healthy alternatives for regular snacks.

4. Dinner

Dinner for a sample diet to lower cholesterol should be somewhat similar to lunch. You can start off with a low-calorie salad combined with a low-fat dressing. You can then alternate between fish, lean meat and skinned poultry. Experts recommend at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables daily.

This is an overview of what a sample diet to lower cholesterol should contain. Knowing the principle behind the diet is the most important thing. This enables you to alter your diet and give variety to it.



Weight Loss Journal

Tracie Johanson asked:


Real fitness experts know that losing that excess bodyfat for good will bring us a LONG list of benefits. Lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, decreased risk of some cancers, and so on. Besides just helping us look and feel better, achieving true fitness also prevents bone loss, improves memory, eases the symptoms of menopause, and more! In short, regular exercise and bodyfat reduction will all years to our lives by minimizing so many life-threatening conditions.

Now, thanks to new research from Britain, we can actually say how many years we might gain by losing that excess weight once and for all! Researcher Tim Spector of St. Thomas’ Hospital (U.K.) is part of the team that studied 1,100+ British women between 18 and 76 years of age.

“Telomeres cap the ends of chromosomes in cells and protect them from damage. However, each time a cell divides — and as people age — these caps get shorter, so decreases in telomere length have long been associated with the aging process.

Reporting June 14 in the early online edition of The Lancet, the British researchers found that telomeres of obese women…..were much shorter than those of lean women…… In contrast, lean women had much longer telomeres than moderately overweight women who, in turn, had longer telomeres than obese women.” (Source: HealthDay News)

The researchers found that obese women aged an additional 8.8 years more than lean women (based on telomere length). Wow, 8.8 years!

By the way, this study also focused on smoking and how that impacted aging in women. Perhaps surprisingly, this study found that women who do (or have) smoked aged an additional 4.6 years. What’s surprising about this finding is that obesity appears to cause more ‘aging damage’ than smoking, at least in some women.

There you have it, yet another reputable study proving that regular exercise can add years to our life (and life to our years!). The evidence is absolutely OVERWHELMING: maintaining a fit body through regular exercise will help us live longer!

Besides, we want to look good in a bathing suit this summer!



Lower High Cholesterol

Anna Overweight No More asked:


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Are you still struggling with abs exercise to lose belly fat without seeing results? Stop for a moment and check your weight loss diet. Are you consuming enough dairy products? Dairy products are full of slimming nutrients, such as protein, calcium, selenium and fatty acids. You can lose 5 to 10 pounds, including from belly fat just by adding dairy products. Hence, you can get rid of that fat belly by making simple changes in your weight loss program today!

However, if you are lactose-intolerant, there is still a better solution. You can switch to cultured dairy, such as yogurt, kefir, and hard and soft cheeses. You might be able to lose about 80 percent more belly fat and around 5 to 10 pounds of water weight by consuming cultured dairy products than your regular processed cow’s milk because these products will help you stabilize your digestive system faster. In addition, calcium helps you maintain bone density, lean muscles, and increase your fat loss.

Cultured dairy products, such as yogurt and kefir, have live cultures, which are good bacteria and cause less body bloating because the sugars and protein complexes have been broken down and improve your digestive system. Moreover, protein can boost your metabolism, help you burn more fat, and make you feel satisfied longer avoiding excessive cravings.

You will be consuming good fat to get rid of your bad belly stored fat. Fatty acids are good to help you lose belly fat. For example, cheese and other dairy products contain friendly fat, known as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which is a good fat that helps reduce body fat and increase lean muscle mass, and lower your bad cholesterol.

Still not convinced about increasing daily dairy products to lose belly fat? The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism published a study revealing that, “Women who consumed higher intakes of calcium from dairy foods experienced more significant losses in weight and body fat than those women who consumed calcium from nondairy sources.”

Hence, if you are trying to get rid of belly fat reach for low-fat and non fat dairy products as your friendly belly fat burners.

If you still want to know how to get rid of belly fat, other products that can boost your metabolism to burn more belly fat include drinking green tea for weight loss; adding ginger and fennel to your meals because it fights bloating symptoms, eliminate gas, and improve your digestive system; consuming anise seed; and preparing a leek and celery soup to cleanse your metabolism naturally.

Tofu is another great product to help you burn belly fat. A serving size (3 oz) has only 70 calories, 8gr protein, 3.5 gr of fat, and only 2 gr of carb. You can eat it grilled, in salads, soup, shake, BBQ kebabs, use your creativity. Most important, make sure you are consuming your 8 glasses of water dairy to keep your body hydrated and help your body to eliminate wastes and flush toxins.

In a nutshell, these 3 steps will help you lose belly fat faster:

1. Combining your current abs exercise.

2. Adding 30-45 minutes cardio exercises at least 3 times a week.

3. Adjusting your weight loss diet can lead to a successful weight loss program and finally get rid of that belly fat.

Listen, targeted exercises alone are not enough to burn fat, you need to combine cardio exercises to burn general stored fat, especially belly fat and those accumulated in the lower body.

Make sure you are also sleeping enough and not consuming too much alcohol, especially men drinking too much beer and creating that beer belly. While a regular beer (12 oz) has about 143 calories, 16 gr alcohol, a light beer version has about 108 calories and 14 gr alcohol.

However, a glass of red wine (4 oz) has about 90 calories and 14 gr alcohol, while the light white wine version has about 52 calories and 8 gr alcohol. Imagine, the US Department of Health and Human Services, which publishes a guidelines every 5 years, considers “moderate drinking” a daily intake of one drink for women and two for men. Now, no wonder why men usually develop that beer belly if drinking not only one but 3 or more beers in one sitting!

Therefore, make your calculations when drinking alcohol and think about your belly fat. The more extra empty calories you consume, the more you will have to burn, meaning doing more cardio exercises. Besides, try to eliminate regular soft drinks.

A regular soft drink has about 150 empty calories, including 15 teaspoons of sugar, and cause gases and bloated feeling. On the other hand, drinking diet soft drinks might have 0 calories but still they cause gases. If you must have a soft drink, then go for diet ones… but preferably avoid both.

Therefore, you can finally unveil that trimmed abs by eating healthy and applying the above tips. Losing weight should not be a burden experience, but a healthy and happy experience towards your new figure.

Eat every 3 hours healthy food and small portions, especially having protein in the morning and dinner. Believe me, your abs will say, “thank you.” Hey, although I believe there is no standard diet, these simple tips are working for me, and it might work for you too. Give it a try and get ready to wear those tight jeans and show your flat abs.

Certainly, let me hear from your belly fat and weight loss success story. In the meantime, let me get my cup of yogurt to get rid of my belly fat. Cheers to our no more fat belly!

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Before starting any nutritional program, exercise or diet program, we advise you to consult with your physician.

NOTE: This article may be freely reprinted in your ezines, ebooks, off-line publications, or on your websites. We only require that the entire article - including the links, and the resource box “about the author” at the bottom of each article remain unchanged.



Vitamin K

Arthur Nelson asked:


High cholesterol levels in over 105 million American adults has created one of the biggest booms for American Pharmaceutical Companies in the last decade. The best and most efficient way to lower cholesterol has sparked a heated debate over statin drug use, as opposed to implementation of a low cholesterol diet. Lowering cholesterol has also become a hot topic among the burgeoning ranks of Baby Boomers as they enter into their 40’s and beyond. Sure, the statin drugs appear to be a magic bullet, but at what risk? An 8 week cholesterol cure through diet has been used successfully and safely by millions.

Lovastatin (Mevacor), simvastatin (Zocor), fluvastatin (Lescol), pravastatin (Pravachol), and atorvastatin (Lipitor) are the five statin drugs that are currently marketed to the North American population. While all five do indeed lower cholesterol, they have also been shown to deplete the body of Coenzyme Q10. This is an essential nutrient our bodies make that is required for energy and the basic functioning of cells. Additionally, there have been numerous indications of liver damage and an increased incidence of myositis. Myositis is a rare and sometimes debilitating disease in which the body’s immune system chronically inflames muscle tissue, progressively weakening it. In fact, Health Canada now requires the manufacturers of these statin drugs to include a warning on the patient safety information sheets, and to provide information about the potential for muscle damage, according to the Toronto Star. Some other possible side effects of statin drugs include diarrhea, nausea, and constipation; plus they have even caused severe memory and mental awareness problems in some patients.

On the other side of the fence, lower bad ( LDL) cholesterol and higher good (HDL) cholesterol levels can be achieved through use of a heart healthy cholesterol diet. Lowering cholesterol through diet can be started naturally and safely by following three immediate courses of action.



Lower intake of high cholesterol foods

Lower consumption of foods high in saturated fats and try to avoid trans fats completely

Increase consumption of foods that are high in Omega-3 fatty acids



Lowering intake of high cholesterol foods can be accomplished by eating less red meat, limiting yourself to one egg (USDA recommends limiting cholesterol intake to 300 mg and one large egg contains approx. 260 mg) or switch to an egg substitute. Eat less shrimp. Increase consumption of vegetables and fruit. Reduction in the amount of fried food you consume will make a substantial difference. Switch to whole grain breads, and make oatmeal with fruit your breakfast choice a couple times a week.

Lower consumption of foods high in saturated fat can be easily accommodated by reading labels and choosing healthier brands. Everyday more heart healthy alternatives are sitting in the potato chip and cracker aisle at your local grocery store. Another quick fix is to replace butter and margarine with one of the new heart healthy spreads. These butter and margarine alternatives are prevalent everywhere, even peanut butter has heart healthy alternatives.

Increase consumption of foods high in Omega-3 fatty acids can be accomplished by eating more fish, especially salmon (although it is believed that wild-caught salmon contains more Omega-3 than farm-raised). Start eating a couple handfuls of walnuts, almonds, or Brazil nuts as a snack (1/4 cup of walnuts provides about 2.5g of Omega-3). Flax seeds and chia seeds are also high in this essential nutrient. Omega-3 fatty acids are not produced by the body and must be supplemented through eating, so if you are not a fan of fish or nuts, take an Omega-3 supplement.

Another benefit of Omega-3 fatty acids besides warding of cardiovascular and heart disease, is that the National Institute of Health recently conducted eight evidence-based reviews on the effects of omega-3 fatty acids from food or dietary-supplement sources for the prevention and treatment of several diseases. Omega-3 has been shown to be beneficial in countering diabetes, cancer, asthma, dementia, and cognitive difficulties, just to name a few.

So it should be quite evident that cholesterol is much better managed by utilizing a cholesterol diet that will lower cholesterol naturally and safely. Avoidance of dangerous side effects of statin drugs and the added healing qualities of the use of Omega-3, should urge you to reconsider all the hype in the media and advertising that pronounces the miracle of statins. An 8 week cholesterol cure is in your grocery store now.

Resource box:

Cholesterol can be controlled naturally and safely, simply by making a few dietary changes. Increased consumption of Omega-3 fatty acids will go a long way toward taking your health into your own hands, you won’t regret it. Learn more about cholesterol and heart disease prevention at http://GreatNewsHealth.com/. Visit us today to learn about an 8 week cholesterol cure!



Lower High Cholesterol

Joe Serpico asked:


Regardless of whether your health concerns relate to cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or simply losing weight, you’d be well served to focus on eating a healthy diet which concentrates on foods that are high in vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, and balanced in healthy fats, carbs and proteins.

One way to learn more about what we eat is to check out package labels to see what manufacturers are adding (or removing) from the foods we eat. Read the information on the package and start making comparisons to determine which foods are the best for YOU. Learn about nutritional labeling and the sometimes sneaky ways that manufacturers have of hiding what is in the food. Know and understand ingredient declarations, how they are used, and what a few of the “technical” terms mean. Are the unfamiliar ingredients good or bad for your health?

Since 1994 food manufacturers have been required by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to include food labels (or Nutrition Facts labels) on product packaging so that consumers have accurate nutritional information about the food they purchase. But food labels are more than just a federal requirement - once you understand the information they provide, you can use food labels as a guide to planning healthier meals and snacks.

Food labels are required on almost all foods, excepting certain ones that don’t provide many nutrients such as coffee, alcohol and spices. Although some restaurants provide information about the food they serve, they aren’t required to have labels. The FDA recommends that sellers provide nutritional information on produce, meat, poultry and seafood, but it’s strictly voluntary.

What Is a Serving?

At the top of a food label under Nutrition Facts, you’ll see the serving size and the number of servings in the package. The rest of the nutrition information in the label is based on one serving.

Calories, Calories From Fat and Percent Daily Values

This part of a food label provides the calories per serving and the calories that come from fat. If you need to know the total number of calories you eat every day or the number of calories that come from fat, this section provides that information. Remember that this part of the label doesn’t tell you whether you are eating saturated or unsaturated fat.

On the right side of a food label, you’ll see a column that lists percentages. These percentages refer to the percent daily values (%DV). Percent daily values tell you how much of something, whether it’s fat, sugar or vitamin A, one serving will give you compared to how much you need for the entire day. It will help you gauge the percentage of a nutrient requirement met by one serving of the product. One way to use this section of the label is when you comparison shop. For example, if you’re concerned with sodium, you can look at two foods and choose the food with the lower % DV. Are you trying to eat a low-fat diet? Look for foods that have a lower percent daily value of fat.

The %DV is based on how much or how little of the key nutrients you should eat whether you eat 2,000 or 2,500 calories a day. So if you eat a 2,000-calorie diet, you should eat less than 65 grams of fat in all the foods you eat for the day. If you’re eating 12 grams of fat in your one serving of macaroni and cheese (remember that’s one cup), you can calculate how much fat you have left for the day. You can use the bottom part of the food label in white to compare what you are eating to the % DV you’re allowed for that nutrient, whether it’s fat, sodium or fiber. If you need more or less than 2,000 or 2,500 calories, you’ll need to adjust this accordingly.

Nutrients

Fat, Sugar, Sodium and Carbohydrate

The sections on a food label shows the name of a nutrient and the amount of that nutrient provided by one serving of food. You may need to know this information, especially if you have high blood pressure, diabetes or are eating a diet that restricts certain nutrients such as sodium or carbohydrates.

Food labels also include information about how much sugar and protein is in the food. If you are following a low-sugar diet or you’re monitoring your protein intake, it’s easy to spot how much of those nutrients are contained in one serving.

Vitamins, Minerals and Other Information

The light purple part of the label lists nutrients, vitamins and minerals in the food and their percent daily values. Try to average 100% DV every day for vitamins A and C, calcium, iron and fiber. Do the opposite with fat, saturated fat, sodium and cholesterol. Try to eat less than 100% DV of these.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Reading a Food Label

Until you become accustomed to reading food labels, it’s easy to become confused. Avoid these common mistakes when reading labels:

-A label may say that the food is reduced fat or reduced sodium. That means that the amount of fat or sodium has been reduced by 25% from the original product. It doesn’t mean, however, that the food is low in fat or sodium. For example, if a can of soup originally had 1,000 milligrams of sodium, the reduced sodium product would still be a high-sodium food.

-Don’t confuse the % DV for fat with the percentage of calories from fat. If the % DV is 15% that doesn’t mean that 15% of the calories comes from fat. Rather, it means that you’re using up 15% of all the fat you need for a day with one serving (based on a meal plan of 2,000 calories per day).

-Don’t make the mistake of assuming that the amount of sugar on a label means that the sugar has been added. For example, milk naturally has sugar, which is called lactose. But that doesn’t mean you should stop drinking milk because milk is full of other important nutrients including calcium.

Reading Label Lingo

In addition to requiring that packaged foods contain a Nutrition Facts label, the FDA also regulates the use of phrases and terms used on the product packaging. Here’s a list of common phrases you may see on your food packaging and what they actually mean.

No fat or fat free - Contains less than 1/2 gram of fat per serving Lower or reduced fat: Contains at least 25 percent less per serving than the reference food. (An example might be reduced fat cream cheese, which would have at least 25 percent less fat than original cream cheese.)

Low fat - Contains less than 3 grams of fat per serving.

Lite - Contains 1/3 the calories or 1/2 the fat per serving of the original version or a similar product.

No calories or calorie free - Contains less than 5 calories per serving.

Low calories - Contains 1/3 the calories of the original version or a similar product.

Sugar free - Contains less than 1/2 gram of sugar per serving.

Reduced sugar - at least 25% less sugar per serving than the reference food.

No preservatives - Contains no preservatives (chemical or natural).

No preservatives added - Contains no added chemicals to preserve the product. Some of these products may contain natural preservatives.

Low sodium - Contains less than 140 mgs of sodium per serving.

No salt or salt free - Contains less than 5 mgs of sodium per serving.

High fiber - 5 g or more per serving (Foods making high-fiber claims must meet the definition for low fat, or the level of total fat must appear next to the high-fiber claim).

Good source of fiber - 2.5 g to 4.9 g. per serving.

More or added fiber - Contains at least 2.5 g more per serving than the reference food.

With a little practice, you will be able to put your new found knowledge about food labeling to work. Assess your diet and decide what needs to be changed. Start by eliminating the foods that don’t measure-up to your nutritional wants and needs, and replacing them with healthier substitutes.

And while you’re at it, visit the FDA website and learn about the new labeling requirements, including those for “trans” fat. Like saturated fats, trans fats can raise levels of low-density lipoproteins (LDL) and increase your risk of heart disease. The “Nutrition Facts” panel on food packaging must provide this information beginning January 1, 2006, but most manufacturers will start providing it sooner



Lower Cholesterol Level

Janet Sommers asked:


Diet to lower cholesterol has been carefully studied. As we all know, cholesterol is defined as a fatlike compound that is found in our body. Cholesterol is known to be the major cause of blocking arteries and is the chief contributor to heart disease, heart problems and stroke. Though we know that cholesterol, the good cholesterol or High-density lipoproteins (HDLs) they called it, is needed in our body, it is a vital components in our cell membrane, in building hormones and vitamin d among all other body functions. However our main concern in general is how to lower these bad cholesterols that causes harmful effects in our body.

We also want to site information on the right diets to lower cholesterol naturally and safely. To lower cholesterol naturally and safely is to maintain healthy lifestyle. There is no natural and safer way to do it but to watch our diet, the food that we eat. How? Our cholesterol can be lowered by replacing saturated fat with polyunsaturated fat. Saturated fats are mostly found in meats and poultry. This has to be avoided or else cholesterol will shoot up. There is also no other option but to hold back the intake of refined carbohydrates found in bakery products, pastas, and sugar-added foods. Why? It is because it is believed to have hydrogenated fats. Prepared foods are no exemption also. We will not only talk about the foods to avoid so you can lower down your cholesterol but prevention is better than curing what we have gotten into from not being conscious and cautious of the food that we eat. What I mean, if you have high cholesterol, cure and treat it. But if you are not experiencing heart problems and other high cholesterol related problem, better still prevent it from happening by being mindful of what we eat.

As general rule, eating healthy will never go wrong. Watching your diet is a key. There are common foods that are low in cholesterol or can help fight bad cholesterol such as oatmeal, beans, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage to name a few. In addition, instead of taking dairy milk, you may change it to Soya milk since it is cholesterol free. Mackerel, salmon and tuna are rich in omega 3 that fights bad cholesterol and protect the heart. True that there is maybe a handful of food that can lower your cholesterol but that is not it. It is not that simple as humming your favorite song, diet is work and it does not end in controlling or minimizing or avoiding foods that you eat. It has to be accompanied by the right attitude and the proper exercise to make it work. Exercise helps fight the build up of cholesterol in the body. Patients in severe case have to see their doctors for proper treatment and medications. Some conditions need medical interference already since having high cholesterol is a serious health concern that could not be set aside or taken lightly. I wish you the best of luck!



Weight Loss Journal

Dr John Anne asked:


Food plays an important role in managing the cholesterol level in your body. Apart from a well-managed lifestyle or proper medication, it is mandatory that you switch to fat-free, cholesterol-free healthy diet to manage the level of cholesterol. If you are suffering from high blood cholesterol problem, quite obviously you are having a high level of LDL; then you should consider about three important factors concerning your selection about food to lower cholesterol. These three factors are - saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol. It is advisable that you make your meal absolutely free from these three diet components.

Or else, at least limit the intake of these three diet components. This article enlightens you on the important food to lower cholesterol level in your body. You may add any of the following foods to your diet to manage your blood cholesterol.

Beans, Peas and Lentil

This is an appropriate food to lower cholesterol level. Beans, peas, and lentils consist of high soluble fiber, which effectively manages cholesterol level in your body. You can always prepare a colorful salad dishes using these nutritional substances, and keep yourself and your loved ones healthy. Apart from that, you may eat apples, carrots, barely, and oats to fulfill the need of soluble fiber.

Soy

It contains high protein. Isoflavones, naturally found in Soy products are believed to mimic the role of hormones that help in regulating cholesterol level in the body. If you really care about lowering your cholesterol level, it is a must that you take a minimum of 25gms of soy proteins as a part of your daily diet. You may take soy yogurt, soy burgers, ground soy, soy nuts, soy milk, tofu, and tempeh in your regular diet

Fish

Fish is an ideal food to lower cholesterol level. It meets the demands for omega 3, which is beneficial for lowering high blood cholesterol. It especially provides protection against LDL cholesterol. Omega 3 fatty acids are commonly found in mackerel, salmon, herring, sardines, tuna, and halibut. Fishes are the perfect option for getting omega 3, but you may also opt in walnuts, flax seeds, or almonds, to have the same benefits.

Olive Oil

Mono-saturated fats can effectively lower the level of high blood cholesterol, especially ‘bad’ or LDL one. It has the ability to raise the amount of HDL cholesterol in the system. Olive oil is rich with mono-saturated fat. Hence, you can switch to this wonderful food to lower cholesterol, especially while cooking or preparing salads.

Flax seed

Flax seed is a perfect food to lower cholesterol level. It constitutes high protein, soluble fiber and omega 3 fatty acids. It consists of useful component called lignans. Lignans offers protection against cardiovascular problems by means of lowering LDL cholesterol level. Apart from that, it is assumed that flax seed has the ability to fight against few types of cancer like breast and colon cancer. It also helps protecting body from diabetes.

Garlic

Garlic is known as kitchen’s pride. Its medicinal property is highly respected among different cultures for several hundreds of years. It has the ability to fight against different cardiovascular diseases such as high cholesterol, atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure. According to the results found in different scientific studies, garlic helps lowering cholesterol level. Garlic has two compounds, known as allin and allicin. These two compounds are assumed to intrude with the cholesterol metabolism function in the liver. Additionally, garlic also regulates the amount of cholesterol released in the blood stream.

Vitamin C and E

These two vitamins are well known for their anti-oxidizing property. They can help minimize the level of cholesterol in the body. The primary sources for deriving vitamin C are cabbage, oranges, potatoes, peppers, kiwi, and strawberries. On the other hand, for having vitamin E in your diet, you can easily depend on various healthy foods such as avocados, broccoli, mangoes, Brazilian seeds, peanuts, almonds, and sunflower seeds.



The Biggest Loser

Kathy Burns-millyard asked:


Weight problems and obesity are constant topics in the news these days, because fat has become an epidemic. With this increase in obesity, there’s also been a huge surge of diet pills put on the market. Unfortunately, prescription diet pills are quite expensive and can be uncomfortable - if not downright dangerous to your health.

Some of the known side effects of prescription diet pills include: Dry mouth, sleeplessness, irritability, stomach upset, painful urination, blurred vision, adverse effects to the central nervous system, and decreased sexual drive. Then of course - since the recent fiasco with prescription pain killers - there’s not much telling these days whether prescription diet pills are actually safe.

Luckily there are many all natural herbs and supplements that can help you lose weight though, here are some of the primary ones:

L-Carnitine Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) is for fatty acid oxidation - helping users burn unwanted body fat. Fatty acids are one of the key energy sources the body uses, and oxidation is the process by which they’re broken down to create energy. The fatty acids cannot penetrate the inner mitochondia membrane (where they are burned for energy), and the key role of L-Carnitine is to transport fatty acids across the mitochondra membrane to allow for oxidation of the fats. L-Carnitine plays an important role in energy production; It helps in weight loss and fat burning, It transports long-chain fatty acids into the mitochondra to metabolize and generate energy; Enhances cellular energy in the brain; Improves mental performance; Helps slow the effects of aging; Decreases symptoms of depression; Helps prevent cataracts; Used to support all bodily functions that have a height energy demand. Green Tea “Better to be deprived of food for three days, then tea for one.” (Ancient Chinese Proverb) To sum up, here are just a few medical conditions in which green tea is reputed to be helpful: weight control, cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, high cholesterol levels, cardiovascular disease, infection, and impaired immune function. The secret of green tea lies in the fact it is rich in catechin polyphenols, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). EGCG is a powerful anti-oxidant: besides inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, it kills cancer cells without harming healthy tissue. It has also been effective in lowering LDL cholesterol levels, and inhibiting the abnormal formation of blood clots. The latter takes on added importance when you consider that thrombosis (the formation of abnormal blood clots) is the leading cause of heart attacks and stroke. Camellia Sinensis Camellia Sinesis activates the central nervous system, which may spar the body’s ability to burn calories and unwanted fat cells through the Thermogenic process. The phenol groups in Camellia Sinensis are extremely active, easily able to capture and neutralize free radicals and other pro-oxidants. Researchers have found that Camellia Sinensis is over 200 times more powerful than vitamin E in neutralizing pro-oxidants and free radicals that attack lipids (oils and fats). Camellia Sinensis is also 20 times more potent than vitamin E in reducing the formation of dangerous and potentially mutagenic peroxides that form in rancid fats and lard. Alpha Lipoic Acid The body needs Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) to produce energy. It plays a crucial role in the mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells. The body actually makes enough ALA for these basic metabolic functions. This compound acts as an antioxidant, however, only when there is an excess of it and it is in the “free” state in the cells. But there is little free ALA circulating in your body, unless you consume supplements or get it injected. Foods contain only tiny amounts of it. What makes ALA special as an antioxidant is its versatility—it helps deactivate an unusually wide array of cell-damaging free radicals in many bodily systems. Bioperine and Piper Nigrum Bioperine and Piper Nigrum’s value is that it has been established to enhance the bioavailibility of certain supplements through increased absorption. In other words, when combined with Bioperine, numerios vitamins, minerals, amino acids and anti oxidants are more effeciently absorbed and utilized in the body. Because of its ability to create enhanced and more efficient means of nutrient transportation into the bloodstream, Bioperine may have a positive effect on thermogenisis,which would lead to an elevated metabolism. Notwithstanding, Bioperine and Piper Nigrum’s real, proven value is in it’s ability to enhance the absorption of various nutrients which is the main benefit it provides to any fat burner compilation.

Biotin Part of the vitamin B-complex; Biotin is also known as vitamin H. Biotin helps promote energy production, helps to maintain a healthy nervous system, good for hair (prevents greying and baldness) and healthy skin. Biotin is necessary for both metabolism and growth in humans, particularly with reference to production of fatty acids, antibodies, digestive enzymes, and in niacin (vitamin B-3) metabolism.

(Note: This article is not professional medical advice and statements may not be approved by the FDA



Vitamin K