Low Cholesterol Foods

Cholesterol is one of the most vital substances present in our body. It is found in all cells and throughout the blood stream. Some of the primary functions of cholesterol are to regulate fluidity in cell membranes, formation of bile in the liver and various hormones.

Cholesterol can be broadly classified into high and low density lipoproteins (HDL and LDL). Since HDL is vital for the protection of the heart from strokes and other heart disorders, it is sometimes referred to as the good cholesterol. But, an excess of LDL, that is above 200 mg/dl cholesterol causes clogging in the arteries and this obstruction in flow often leads to heart attacks.

Drinking, smoking, a high-trans-fat diet and an inactive lifestyle are all capable of increasing the cholesterol level. Numerous deaths all over the world have been a consequence of high cholesterol. It is therefore extremely essential for us to keep the LDL level under check and avoid its disastrous effects. A low cholesterol diet is by far the best way to ensure this.

The first and foremost step to a cholesterol free diet is drinking plenty of water everyday; a natural way of cleansing the body internally, and flushing out the waste. Water is probably the only thing one can drink as much as he/she desires, without any side-effects.

Low cholesterol foods primarily consist of the foods which man used to consume before the modern age. Nowadays, most of us are adopting the western cuisine, which includes pizzas, burgers, soft drinks, pork, baloney etc. All these mouth-watering dishes are highly rich in saturated fats and trans-fats, that means lots and lots of cholesterol. Even dairy products are categorised as high-fat. The consumption of these foods should be minimal. Fruits and vegetables, or what this generation refers to as rabbit food, should essentially be a part of one's diet. They not only contain dietary fiber and nutrients, but control the cholesterol level and reduce risk of heart diseases.

Whole grain cereals like oatmeal, whole grain breads, barley, brown rice etc. make the best choice for a healthy breakfast. Cinnamon, raisins and other dried fruits can be added for flavour. While buying, the customer should be watchful and look out for tags like "added sugars", or "partially hydrogenated". Nuts and seeds are equally fibrous and have high energy content. All these foods are highly efficient for weight control.

Lean meats of chicken, turkey and fish are also included in low cholesterol foods. They are rich in proteins, vitamins and other micronutrients, and also act against the LDL cholesterol. Legumes, wild rice, salmons, and plant sprouts are other foods low in cholesterol.

People with a sedentary lifestyle need to do more than just follow a low cholesterol recipe. Walking, jogging regularly, and hitting the gym now and then is excellent for maintaining the body metabolism. Breathing exercises, meditation and other yogic arts have proved to be potent in reducing cholesterol and alleviating stress.

Basically the bottom line is that consuming low cholesterol foods is the most natural way to ensure longevity and reduce health risks.