Most of the same foods which are good for weight loss are also good for keeping your cholesterol down. These include low-fat, high-fiber choices like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Controlling your cholesterol is important, because levels above 200 increase your risk for cardiovascular disease. What you eat can influence your cholesterol level in one of two ways. You may consume dietary cholesterol in the form of animal products, including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy items. You can also eat foods containing saturated fats, which your body will convert to cholesterol. Of these two sources, saturated fats have a greater effect on your cholesterol level than do low-fat animal products. Though saturated fats may be found in fatty meats, they also occur in tropical oils, shortening, hydrogenated (hy-DRAW-jin-ay-tid) oils, and butter. Therefore, just because a food claims to be 'no cholesterol' or 'vegetarian,' don't assume it's healthy. Instead, check the label for its content of saturated fat. When you do eat fat, try to choose monounsaturated oils like canola and olive oil, as they can improve your ratio of 'good' to 'bad' cholesterol. Other foods that may be beneficial for cholesterol levels are tofu, garlic, and green tea. For best results, however, dietary changes must be combined with exercise.
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