Diet For High Cholesterol And Triglycerides

Lipids, along with proteins, are a fundamental building block for any cell. The properties of fats allow them to perform wonderfully as a barrier. That is why they are indispensable in the construction of various membranes in the cell. In the latter, many enzymatic processes are performed and their differentiation into different structures - organelles such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, lysosomes and others. - is necessary for their proper implementation.

Every element in a living organism is useful only if it is properly combined in proportion to the others, and a deficiency or excess of any substance can cause a disease process.

This of course also applies to fats. Determining blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides is an important point in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Establishing an increase in their levels requires increased attention and a change in diet and exercise.

Hyperlipidemia

Fats do not move freely in the blood, they are bound in complexes with proteins, forming lipoprotein complexes . There are different types of proteins that give different properties to the complexes. "Good" and "bad" cholesterol are widespread. The proteins of the bad ( LDL ) are those that mediate the deposition of fat on the tissues, this is the cholesterol that is involved in the formation of atherogenic plaques on the walls of blood vessels.

On the other hand, good cholesterol ( HDL ) has such properties that it exports fat from tissues and blood vessels to the liver for metabolism and conversion.

Therefore, not only is an increase in cholesterol in general an indicator of a problem, but a decrease in HDL is also a sign of this.

The diet in case of increase of these indicators should be observed for an average of 3 months, after which they should be re-examined to monitor the effect. If it is not satisfactory, in addition to diet, efforts to reduce them can be supported by medication.

Principles of the regime in hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol)

1. Limit foods rich in cholesterol - egg yolks, heavy meat such as lamb and sheep;
2. Reduction of saturated fats - butter, cheese, sausages;
3. Preferential intake of vegetable fats - such as olive oil;
4. Increasing the consumption of vegetable fiber from fruits, vegetables and multigrain breads;
5. Exercise of regular physical activity;
6. Limit alcohol consumption.

Nutritional choice for high triglycerides

This condition requires a reduction in excess body weight. Daily physical activity also helps reduce triglyceride levels and is highly recommended.

• Meat, fish, eggs - it is recommended to consume lean meats with priority - pork, beef and beef are also acceptable choices if low-fat parts are used, but do not overdo it. The rabbit is appropriate. From birds - to be used without the skin.

Fish is recommended to be present in the menu at least 3 times a week. For its processing, as well as that of meat, the rule applies - no frying!

Sausages, sausages, frankfurters and other processed meat products should be avoided.

Eggs are an important source of vitamins and do not need to be completely excluded from the menu. Whole eggs - no more than 3-4 per week; protein only - no limit.

• Dairy products - another valuable source of protein and calcium. Their presence in the menu is important, but it must change - to prefer low-fat options. Where possible, replace the cheese with cottage cheese and the yoghurt below 2% fat.

Limit greasy cheeses, full-fat yogurts, and the use of animal cream in cooking.

• Fruits and vegetables - have the advantage of fresh fruits and vegetables. When using non-seasonal products, use frozen ones, not compotes, pickles, etc. rich in salt or sugar.

Potatoes - boiled or baked, but not fried or in the form of  chips.

• Cereals - Use whole grain products rich in fiber. They not only improve digestion, but also belong to the "slow carbohydrates" with a low glycemic index - ie. cause a smoother rise in insulin levels. The latter is related to the transformation of excess carbohydrates into fat.
• Drinks - water - pure or flavored with fruit, but not with sugar, tea, coffee - do not overdo it, limit to the exclusion of alcohol. Juices - freshly squeezed fruit and vegetable juices, but be careful with the amount and do not consume packaged and enriched with sugar.
• Fats - fats should be vegetable - olive oil, and used mainly raw.