Snacks For Patients With High Cholesterol

The body needs cholesterol so that it can produce sufficient amounts of vitamin D and hormones. This fatty substance also helps improve an individual’s digestion. Unfortunately, however, it is very easy for individuals to end up with high cholesterol. High cholesterol is quite serious, as it dramatically increases an individual’s risk of strokes, heart disease, and even heart attacks. Otherwise healthy adults are supposed to receive a cholesterol test at their doctor’s office once every 5 years. However, as individuals age, especially if they get high cholesterol, this testing frequency will increase.

Most individuals will require high cholesterol meds to treat their condition. Since cholesterol medication does come with side effects, it is common for patients to inquire about the safest cholesterol medicine. Thus, they will often try plant sterol supplements and other vitamins for high cholesterol. However, it is still vital for patients with high cholesterol to follow a healthy diet, including the snacks they choose.

Variety Of Nuts

Fiber is an important part of everyone’s diet for many reasons, including to help their bowel movements stay regular. Soluble fiber, however, is even more important for individuals with high cholesterol. This is because evidence has indicated this type of fiber has cholesterol-lowering properties. Some experts also believe that antioxidants may prevent cholesterol from clogging the arteries. Certain nuts, such as walnuts, are considered good sources of antioxidants. Nuts can also contain plant sterols, which may help reduce a patient’s reliance on supplements.

However, patients must not rely on only one type of nut. They need a variety to have a chance at getting all of the potential health benefits. Thus, instead of only consuming walnuts, individuals with high cholesterol should also eat almonds, pecans, and macadamia nuts, among others.

Uncover information on a portable snack for high cholesterol next.