Weight Loss on A Low Cholesterol Diet

Many people are put on a low cholesterol diet by their doctors. This could be because of an actual heart incident, lab tests that indicate high cholesterol, or family history of heart problems. At the same time, people also want to lose weight. Is it possible to lose weight on a low cholesterol diet? Yes indeed, because many of the principles that lower cholesterol also help reduce weight.

Elements of A Low Cholesterol Diet

Some of the basic elements of a low cholesterol diet are the same for a weight loss diet. These include reducing saturated fats, adding more fiber, reducing fats from dairy, using less oil, using a good oil such as olive oil, and reducing sodium. While people on a weight loss diet might not normally reduce their sodium, it doesn’t hurt to do so, as it can help control fluid retention.

Reducing Saturated Fats

The key to reducing saturated fats starts with understanding foods such as meats and poultry that can contain lots of fats when cooked. A great way to lose weight on a low cholesterol diet is to buy boneless chicken breasts. They can be easily cooked in the oven in a delicious way. For example, squeeze fresh lemon juice on the chicken, put some vegetables such as leeks and zucchini slices on top of the breast, wrap it in aluminum foil, and bake for 30 minutes. The chicken breasts will be moist and delicious, you will have healthy vegetables, and you will have no cholesterol-raising bad fats or sodium at all. Zero. This is just one of many examples of how a low cholesterol diet can help you lose weight. Another key in the fats is that there should be no solid fats in your house at all, such as Crisco™ and others. Cook only with healthy oils such as olive oils.

Adding Fiber

A great way to control weight on a low cholesterol diet is to include sources of fiber that are found in vegetables and whole fruit. While you can also add fiber to your diet using good whole grains such as brown rice, when your goal is weight loss as well as cholesterol control, you might want to minimize the use of the grains in the beginning. That does not mean to eliminate them, but include them with moderation. Add salads and veggies to your diet instead.

Reducing Fats from Dairy

Dairy can be beneficial for you, but if you are watching the cholesterol, it may not be the best food. In addition, cheese is notorious for putting on weight. The best advice would be to lay off of it altogether. However, if you are going to have cheese, shop for cheese that has reduced or no fat, and keep the portions under control. Cheese is a habit more than a necessity of life and can be changed when you find more nutritious things to eat.

Work with a Doctor

If you need to be on a low cholesterol diet, follow your doctor’s instructions. Don’t take anyone else’s words for what is or is not good for you. Be sensible, and you can lose weight as well.

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