According to a survey conducted by a leading diagnostic chain, close to 50% women in India have alarming cholesterol levels. "Forty eight percent of women in the age group of 46-60 years had the highest level of abnormality in the lipid profile tests," reported IANS. High cholesterol is one of the leading causes of heart ailments. It is described as a condition wherein fat deposition happens in the arteries which puts excess pressure on the heart. It was also found that women living in the northern and eastern part of the country had the highest rate of blood triglycerides with low HDL (high density lipoprotein). Total cholesterol levels were the highest in women from South (34.15%) and West India (31.90%).
High cholesterol can easily be tackled and even prevented with the help of regular exercising and by maintaining a balanced diet. Oil-laden, fattening and refined food items must be avoided with an aim to make one's diet a nutritionally balanced one.
Cholesterol lowering foods
Load up on foods rich in fibre, Omega-3 fatty acids and monounsaturated fats to keep your cholesterol levels in control. "Fibre is great for lowering and keeping cholesterol levels in check as it bulks up your food and helps you feel full. It also helps in reducing the absorption of cholesterol in the body," shared Dr. Rupali Datta, Consultant Nutritionist, Fortis Escorts, New Delhi.
Cereals are great for maintaining healthy cholesterol. Whole grains must be a dedicated part of your diet. If you're a non-vegetarian, cut back on meats and consume more of fish instead - twice a day would be good. Nuts and seeds are great for boosting good cholesterol, however you must consume these in moderation as they are calorific in nature.
Get in touch with your medical expert to learn more about cholesterol and how it affects your heart health and what dietary tweaks will suit you.
Inputs from IANS
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