Nutrition for Health
Nutrition > Health > Nutrients > Cholesterol
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is a fat contained in many foods. High blood levels are linked to a high risk of heart disease. Health authorities recommend cholesterol blood levels should be no higher than 5.5 mmols per liter, or even less if you are in a high risk group such as having diabetes, or a history of heart or kidney disease.
Dietary Tips
- limit cholesterol-rich foods, and increase the amount and variety of fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grain foods
- drink low or reduced fat milk and other diary products
- choose lean cuts of meat, and limit fatty meats such as sausages and salamis
- eat fresh or canned fish at least twice a week
- eat polyunsaturated margarine instead of butter
- eat food high in soluble fibre such as nuts, legumes and seeds
Lifestyle Tips
- reduce alcohol intake to one or two drinks per day
- don't smoke
- exercise regularly
- lose excess body fat
