High cholesterol: Nutritionist reveals top prevention tips

When you subscribe we will use the information you provide to send you these newsletters. Sometimes they’ll include recommendations for other related newsletters or services we offer. Our Privacy Notice explains more about how we use your data, and your rights. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Cholesterol doesn’t just come from food. It also naturally occurs in cells of the human body. It helps us with digestion as well as hormone and vitamin D production. Having high LDL cholesterol levels can put you more at risk for heart disease. It can contribute to artery blockage, which limits blood flow to and from your heart or brain. This can cause a heart attack or stroke. Eating large portions of mashed potato may be increasing your levels to dangerous highs.

Mashed potatoes themselves are not unhealthy, however mashed potatoes with butter, sour cream, and milk can increase calories and may increase your risk of high cholesterol.

These all add fats to the potatoes, and trans or saturated fats are known to contribute to high cholesterol levels.

That doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy potatoes, but experts recommend baking your potato, and try using a healthier butter alternative or some olive oil on top instead.

When making mashed potatoes, add skim milk and low- or no-fat Greek yogurt to give them a little creaminess. Use spices like oregano, pepper, or garlic for flavour.

Eating lots of saturated fats can increase a person’s LDL cholesterol level.

As butter contains a lot of saturated fat, people with high cholesterol should be mindful of how much they consume each day.

The American Heart Association recommends that people with high cholesterol monitor their consumption of butter.

They suggest replacing it with healthy fat alternatives such as avocados and olive oil.

DON’T MISS
Covid vaccine side effects: Six emergency symptoms [INSIGHT]
Type 2 diabetes: Gastoparesis is a warning sign [TIPS]
High blood pressure: Three drinks to lower bp [ADVICE]

Nutrient consultant Marisa Moore claimed that mashed potatoes could raise cholesterol levels.

“Most mashed potatoes, especially at restaurants, include hefty portions of butter, cream, whole milk, sour cream, and/or cream cheese,” she said.

“This turns a perfectly healthy potato into a saturated fat bomb.

“Order a plain baked potato and top it with vegetables, salsa, or low-fat sour cream.”

The NHS recognises that butter and cream contribute to high cholesterol levels.

In fact, the health body advises people who are trying to lower their cholesterol to try to eat less of these ingredients altogether.

To counteract unhealthy choices, a cholesterol-friendly diet includes brown rice, bread and pasta.

According to the Mayo Clinic, useful tips when trying to lower your cholesterol levels include:

• Eating lots of healthy, heart-boosting foods, such as fibrous whole grains, healthy fats, and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids
• Limiting intake of partially hydrogenated oils, fried foods, and foods containing trans fats
• Eating plenty of fruit and vegetables
• Replacing fatty meats with lean meats, such as chicken, and fish
• Including fibrous and protein-rich plant sources, including lentils and beans, in the diet
• Exercising for at least 30 minutes every day
• Limiting alcohol intake
• Quitting smoking
• Trying to maintain a healthy weight

Source: Read Full Article