Essential Cholesterol Facts: Benefits, Importance, Uses & How to Reduce

To put it in the simplest terms for you, cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of the body. Our body has a way of manufacturing the cholesterol it needs to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that aid digestion—these are some of the uses of cholesterol. There are two main forms of cholesterol, LDL (low density lipoprotein) and HDL (high density lipoprotein). One of the reasons for high cholesterol includes factors like unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, or genetics. Cholesterol leads to building up of fatty deposits and plaque on the artery walls and this causes heart ailments and problems with the blood vessels. However, HDL is protective for our body, as it carries cholesterol from other parts of the body back to the liver. It is sometimes called “good” cholesterol. LDL, on the other hand, is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, as a high level of LDL leads to a build up of cholesterol in our arteries, which in turn, has serious ill-effects on our health.

In case you’re worried about how to reduce high cholesterol, it is imperative to eat foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids. Salmon, herring, and mackerel are some of the fishes that are abundant in omega 3 fatty acids. The “six super-foods” that have been found to actively lower cholesterol levels, include – soya foods (soya milk, soya desserts, soya nuts, etc.), a handful of nuts a day, oats and barley, plant sterols/stanols, fruits and vegetables, and foods rich in unsaturated fats, such as canola and vegetable oils. Is cholesterol good for health? While the body does need some cholesterol, it’s best to keep LDL levels in check. What is the reason for high ldl cholesterol? Often, it’s due to an excess of saturated fats and a sedentary lifestyle. Reasons for high cholesterol can also stem from genetics, obesity, and lack of physical activity. If you want to know how to control high cholesterol, focusing on a balanced diet and regular exercise is key. Additionally, limiting foods that are high in saturated fat can help if you’re wondering how to reduce high cholesterol effectively. Go for low cholesterol breakfast recipes comprising oat bran, oatmeal, lentils and beans and always have food that is low in sugar and salt. Additionally, nuts are high in calories while preventing cholesterol absorption. On the other hand, fatty desserts made of dairy products, fatty meats, cheese and tropical oils like palm oil are to be strictly avoided.

What is the reason for high cholesterol

Genetic predisposition, unhealthy eating habits, smoking, and lack of exercise are some of the many factors that may contribute to high cholesterol.

Foods that cause cholesterol

Foods high in saturated and trans fats—such as fried items, processed meats, and full-fat dairy—are often linked with elevated cholesterol levels

Besides consuming healthy foods, you should also make it a point to increase your physical activity, as it will help raise HDL, the “good” cholesterol. Taking a brisk walk daily, riding your bike to work, taking up a sports, or swimming are some of the ways in which you can make a difference. Besides, quitting smoking will let your LDL drop and raise HDL in turn. So, if you’re a smoker, cut down immediately. Last but not the least, hearty doses of laughter can actually act like medicine and increase your HDL.

You should also look to switch to Nutralite which is a healthy table margarine. It is rich in MUFA and PUFA which are known to combat cholesterol. It is completely free of hydrogenated fats which are some of the major causes of unhealthy cholesterol. Now you know why Nutralite makes for a good option as far as your regular breakfast is concerned and a great table spread. When considering the benefits of cholesterol, remember moderation is essential to overall well-being. That’s why opting for a nutralite table spread can be a healthier choice in managing your daily fat intake.