A recent article in AARP magazine highlighted a man’s diagnosis of high cholesterol. Since then his wife has been monitoring his diet, which is causing him to feel miserable, and hungry. The tips suggested for healthier eating seemed like a good reminder for ways we can all cut down on cholesterol, and maintain a harmonious home…
Cooking as a team can help. Searching the internet for dishes that you both find nutritious and tasty can help you to be on the same page. The American Heart Association has recipes on its website, heart.org. Consider taking a cooking class together – many local grocery stores have classes geared towards healthy eating.
While beef has gotten a bad rap, researchers at Penn State University found that small portions of lean beef added to an otherwise heart-healthy diet was okay. In moderation eggs may be all right as well. Walter Willett, M.D., chair of the Department of Nutrition at the Harvard School of Public Health said, “Eggs do contain cholesterol, but they are also a good source of protein and contain many vitamins and healthy fats.” It was noted that one egg contains the maximum recommended daily amount of cholesterol for a person with diabetes.
Fruits, veggies, whole grains and low-fat dairy foods are the best cholesterol-lowering foods we can eat. Soluble fiber foods such as broccoli, nuts and oranges can slow the absorption of cholesterol. As for the sweet tooth many of us have, a taste of birthday cake once in awhile is probably fine, but choosing a healthier option like yogurt with dried fruits or nuts is the better option most of the time.
For other heart-smart recipes go to aarp.org/lowcholesterol……. AARP Magazine August/September 2012