A Close Examination of Cholesterol

Cardiac problems and cholesterol go hand in hand. There is such a thing as ‘good’ cholesterol which is found in olive oil, fish and nuts as opposed to ‘bad’ cholesterol coming from the consumption of fatty foods, cholesterol which invades the arteries. There has now been a word of caution over that simple sub-division and the solution seems to be a good balanced diet without too much concentration on just specific products.

Research has failed to prove that drugs which replicate the high-density lipoprotein (HDL) found in such things as fish, olive oil and nuts do not seem to be having the desired effect in trials so there has to be other factors going on in the human body. There is a rare gene called SCARBI which has high levels of ‘good’ cholesterol yet where it is present the chances of heart problems appear to have increased to the level that heavy smokers face. It seems that the gene is preventing HDL from disposing of fat that had been consumed.

It had been thought that HDL would be as effective in combating cardiac problems as prescribing statins to lower cholesterol. The current conclusions are that there is still a great deal to be done if HDL is to be seen as an effective way to combat the potential of heart trouble.

Fresh and Salt-Free

The problem is that information can be so confusing. There are few things that get universal approval with the exception of things that are fresh and seasonal. As soon as a vegetable is peeled and vacuum packed for the consumer to buy at the local supermarket it does deteriorate slightly. It takes no effort at all to peel your own vegetables, does it? It is important to retain the vitamins, minerals and flavour of the original product. Similarly, fish and white meat is better for you than red meat. Salt is used for flavour and as a preservative when food is processed. You should minimise your use of salt and use alternatives.

Certainly, when it comes to fish a little olive oil, perhaps lemon and Ethos Heavenly Marine Phytoplankton Nutrition is all you really need. Bake the fish in your oven and your dinner is ready in no time with vegetables that can be lightly stir-fried, steamed or boiled. Ironically it seems that stir fry is the best alternative for retaining flavour, vitamins and minerals as long as you don’t use too much oil. Frying in general, especially in deep fat is common in many kitchens. Battered fish is very popular though it is not the healthiest way to cook fish.

A balanced diet and a little exercise are the best way to live a healthy life. The news about cholesterol may be a little confusing though the consumption of saturated fat is certainly to be avoided. Obesity and all the potential health problems it can cause is an increasing problem and a little common sense on your diet is important, cholesterol or not.