Foods to avoid when cholesterol is high

The liver produces cholesterol to synthesize hormones, produce vitamins, and build cell membranes. In some cases, the body produces more cholesterol or consumes foods that increase blood cholesterol. High cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in the arteries, risking heart disease and stroke. Below are foods that people with high cholesterol should not eat.

Bacon

Bacon has a negative impact on cholesterol levels because it is high in saturated fat. The American Heart Association recommends that individuals limit saturated fat intake to less than 6% of calories or about 13 grams per day in a 2,000-calorie diet. Replacing red meat with plant protein can reduce bad cholesterol and improve risk factors for metabolic disorders that negatively affect heart health.

Sugary drinks

Excessive consumption of sugary drinks like soda and fruit juice is linked to dyslipidemia, increased cholesterol, abnormal triglycerides in the blood. Replace sugary drinks with unsweetened iced tea, filtered water or healthy herbal teas.

Sausage

According to the American Heart Association, a 6 cm long smoked pork sausage has 1.5 g of saturated fat. This dish also contains a lot of sodium and fat. Consumers should read food labels and choose sausages with less fat, sodium and more natural ingredients.

Pizza

Frozen pizza contains unhealthy fats, which easily increase cholesterol. One serving of frozen cheese pizza (199 g) has 8.5 g of saturated fat. People with high cholesterol should limit this dish and increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to have more fiber, promoting cholesterol reduction.

Fried fish

Fish provides healthy protein and is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Steamed and grilled fish is good for health. Deep-fried fish is often high in saturated fat and sodium, which reduces the benefits of omega-3 fats. High sodium intake increases blood pressure, and over time, vessels easily stiffen and narrow, leading to heart attacks and strokes. Dietary guidelines recommend that each person limit their daily sodium intake to 2,300 milligrams per day. Prepare fried dishes with healthy oils such as soybeans and olives.

Abusing alcoholic beverages easily increases triglyceride (triglyceride) levels in the blood, increasing the risk of high blood pressure and cholesterol, and stroke. In addition to nutrition, patients should maintain the habit of exercising 5 times a week, for more than 30 minutes each time. Combine moderate-intensity aerobic exercise with moderate-to-high-intensity endurance exercise. Regular exercise also helps maintain a healthy weight – an important factor in preventing cardiovascular disease.