Cholesterol is a substance made by the human body which aids in the synthesis of vitamin D, aids in protecting the heart, and plays a part in the functioning of certain cells. High cholesterol levels in the blood can lead to heart disease, strokes, and death. Different foods contain varying amounts of cholesterol, so knowing which ones to avoid and which ones to eat can help keep you healthy. Read on for a list of foods which contain high cholesterol, along with some tips on how to lower your cholesterol levels.
Fish
Fish is a great source of protein and healthy fats, and it also contains important nutrients like vitamin B12, vitamin D, and vitamin A. Most fish contain less cholesterol than other animal products such as beef or chicken, but the type of fish you should avoid depends on your goals. If you’re looking to lower your cholesterol levels, avoid eating fish with high levels of mercury or other toxic substances. Instead of the usual fish fillets or steaks, try eating fish which are low in mercury such as trout, swordfish, and marlin. Another way to lower your cholesterol without completely avoiding fish is to drain and discard the liquid which forms when fish is stored or cooked. Throwing away the juice which forms when you catch a fish is an easy way to decrease its cholesterol content.
Eggs
Eggs are a popular source of protein for people who want to lose weight as well as those who want to lower their cholesterol. One large egg has about six grams of protein, five grams of fat, and only two grams of carbohydrates. Eating eggs frequently can increase your body’s ability to rid itself of cholesterol, so having a couple of egg whites every day may help lower your cholesterol levels. It’s important to remember, however, that many people with cholesterol problems can’t tolerate eggs. If you have a wheat allergy or an egg allergy, then you should avoid eggs as well. For people with celiac disease, allergies to milk, or a lactose intolerance, however, eggs are a common source of food allergy symptoms. Aside from allergies, people with liver problems should also steer clear of eggs as well, as they can pose a serious threat to your health if eaten without caution.
Red Meat
Red meat is another common source of protein which many people want to include in their diet. Eating red meat can raise your cholesterol levels, so it is best to avoid it if you’re looking to lower cholesterol. It’s a popular misconception that all red meats are high in cholesterol. In fact, only some are high in cholesterol while others, like lean beef or briskets, contain no cholesterol at all. The type of cut of meat you should avoid, however, depends on your goals. If you’re looking to lose weight, then avoid eating any kind of red meat. It’s better to go for cuts which are low in fat and calories. Try eating flanksteaks, for example, or briskets which are all-natural and lean. Another option is to get the most out of your favorite steak by marinating it or putting it on a barbecue, then serving it with some grilled onions on the side.
Milk
Milk is a common source of calcium for people who want to stay healthy. If you’re looking to lower your cholesterol levels, then avoid milk, as it contains high levels of the fat-increasing hormone insulin. It’s also high in calories, making it an easy choice for people who want to gain weight. Aside from the insulin problem, many people have problems with milk allergies. According to the Mayo Clinic, about 10% of the population has some kind of milk allergy, so if you’re allergic to milk, then you should avoid it entirely. People with soy allergies may also have a problem with milk, as it contains a protein which is similar to soy’s. If you or a family member is allergic to milk, then you should consult with your doctor so that he can put on record that you’re avoiding it for medical reasons. Otherwise, it’s a healthy choice that many people enjoy. Try some skimmed milk in your coffee to wake up in the morning, or enjoy some chocolate milk after your workout. You can also make your own non-dairy milk at home with dairy-free milks now available in most supermarkets.
Dairy
Dairy is a common source of calories for people who want to lose weight as well as those who want to lower their cholesterol. If you’re looking to lose weight, then you should avoid dairy products completely as they contain a lot of calories. This is also true if you have an allergy to dairy, as you’ll then have to avoid it entirely. For people with dairy allergies, it’s best to stay away from fermented dairy products, like yogurt and cheese, as these contain a protein called whey which can cause allergic reactions in people with dairy sensitivities. Some people with dairy allergies can also have a problem with cottage cheese, as it contains a substance called casein, which some people are unable to digest.
There are many foods which contain cholesterol, but not all of them are bad for your health. Some foods, like fish and eggs, have positive effects on cholesterol, while others, like red meat, have negative effects. If you’re looking to lower your cholesterol levels, then you should focus on reducing the amount of foods which raise your cholesterol, like eggs and fish, and increasing the amount of foods which lower it, like vegetables and fruits. You should also try eating more natural foods and avoiding manufactured foods as much as possible. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and grains can help your body in its efforts to rid itself of cholesterol, and that’s a healthy choice for everyone.