If you have high cholesterol or a higher than the normal cholesterol score then you need to make some changes to your diet. You can take one of two routes : you can find a good diet to lower cholesterol book or you can do it yourself. Most people like to get a book because they don't think they are knowledgeable enough to create a diet plan and it helps to have a little bit of support when you are starting out on something new. In reality, creating a low cholesterol diet is quite straightforward if you follow some of these simple guidelines.
Establish what are the fatty or sugary foods that you eat. Then cut down on them or find lower fat alternatives.
Typically, fatty foods include dairy products. It is not really advisable to cut these types of foods out because they also supply vital minerals and vitamins like calcium for example. So you should try to moderate your intake and find alternatives that are not as fatty. For instance, a lower cholesterol diet will require you to switch from whole milk to a low fat type. You may also want to consider a substitute, such as soy milk. Cheese will be something else that you will need to limit, as well as eggs and butter. If you can't resist cheese then look for a different variety that is less fatty.
In terms of protein and meat products look for low fat meats like chicken and fish and make an effort to trim excess fat and skin of the meat before cooking. Go for the lean cuts of meat and chicken breast.
Change the way you prepare meals.
Simply put, frying and deep fat frying are out. Avoid deep fat fried foods. If you really can't live without French fries then indulge every once in a while but view it as a treat rather than a part of your normal diet. If you fry fish, chicken or meat use olive oil, or better still, roast, bake, grill or steam them.
Try to eat salad that include as many fresh vegetables as you like. Experiment with different types of vegetable and fruit in your salads.
Use herbs and spices to season your food rather than oils or sauces.
Get informed.
Learn more about food and how if affects your body. Ask your doctor about cholesterol and the types of foods he/she would recommend. Read more on the topic of cholesterol and the types of food groups that people eat so that you can make decisions about your own health and body.
Lowering your cholesterol is about changing your lifestyle rather than slavishly following a diet plan to the letter.
