Using A Low Carb Cholesterol Diet For Better Health

By Adrian Fletcher

Regardless of the generally held view that cholesterol is bad for the body, it is actually vital to the functioning of many parts of the body. In fact, without cholesterol, we would be in serious trouble. Cholesterol is also present in many foods that we eat and this is where the problem occurs. If we eat too many cholesterol high foods or foods that promote the natural production of cholesterol in the body, then problems can arise. Cholesterol consists of two types, HDL, the so-called good cholesterol and LDL or the bad cholesterol. However, since the body produces all the cholesterol it requires, too much cholesterol is unhealthy. The best way to control this is by eating a low carb cholesterol diet.

The mechanics of the low carb cholesterol diet are simple. This type of diet works by reducing or completely cutting out fat- and sugar-laden foods. When sugar and insulin levels rise, body fat also rises. The triggering factor behind this rise is excess carbohydrates, found in sugars and starches. Too much sugar and body fat can lead to other health problems such as heart disease and diabetes.

Cholesterol is found in many foods, particularly those that contain trans fats and/or saturated fats. Most people who are overweight or obese have high cholesterol levels in their body. One can decrease body fat and bad cholesterol by choosing a low carb cholesterol diet that will provide necessary nutrients for the body without adding additional sugars and starches.

Eating foods low in carbohydrates has the effect of decreasing insulin produced by the body. In order to generate the energy needed to function, the body will then use the excess sugars and fats that are already stored. A low carb cholesterol diet will allow you to lose excess weight more quickly. This is good for lowering cholesterol and reducing the chances of developing diseases like diabetes.

When you are on a low carb cholesterol diet you can eat most of the foods you like. You will need to read the labels to check if the amount of carbohydrates is low enough and how much sugar it has. It is extremely important that you teach yourself and know about the food products that have too many carbs and too much cholesterol. You can stay away from them or offset these high carb foods with foods that have fewer carbs. Simple carbs are the things to avoid. These are easy to breakdown by the body so no energy is used to process them. Look to complex carbs to fill the carb component of any diet you go on.

Nowadays, there are a wide variety of foods that cater to a low carb cholesterol diet. You can even purchase foods that are normally high in starch, like pastas, that have been made with less carbs so those who want to lower their cholesterol or are trying to maintain their health and weight can still enjoy their favorite foods.

If you want to lose weight, feel healthier, have more energy and get faster results on your cholesterol levels, exercise is an important key factor. Double check with your doctor before you begin any new eating plan, including a low carb cholesterol diet, to be absolutely certain this is the right choice for you. If you are pregnant or nursing, or if you already have a medical condition that might limit you, it is extremely important for you to get the go-ahead from your doctor. - 17273

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Get more details on Cholesterol Level and the importance of Good Cholesterol Level for lowering your cholesterol level.