Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a waxy substance usually found in the blood stream. There are two types of cholesterol, good (HDL) and bad (LDL). The body produces it's own amount of natural cholesterol which is all we need. This is why staying away from foods which contain alot of saturated and transfats is important as these will increase your cholesterol and may eventually cause heart problems. Although it is recommended that you follow a diet low in saturated fat, if this seems impossible, you can follow the tips and hints below to help lower cholesterol without giving up anything in your diet.
Protein
Eating a good amount of healthy protein (chicken, soy, nuts and fish) with every meal can help balance out your diet. Protein is proven to reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL).
Oily Fish, nuts and Seeds
Salmon, Herring and Mackerel as well as Flax seeds, pistachios and pine kernels are all rich in omega 3,6 and 9 oils which are very good for your body. Omega-3 helps raise good cholesterol (HDL) and lowers harmful fats. The Omega- 3,6 and 9 oils are also linked to improved skin hair and nail condition and increased overall wellbeing.
Soya
Studies have shown that 25g soy based foods a day, such as tofu, bean paste and soya milk can lower (LDL). I recommend Japanese Miso Soup as a quick soy snack. Bought in sachet form, just add boiling water to create a nice high protein, low fat soup.
Tumeric
A similar root to ginger, used alot in Asian cooking can inhibit the abosorbtion of cholesterol in the intestines. Using fresh tumeric is aways best but it can be hard to come by so powdered tumeric is just as good. It can also be bought in supplement form and is beneficial at 900mg daily.