About cholesterol:

From the chemical composition point of view cholesterol is a combination of steroid and alcohol, which is found in the found in the cell membranes of all body tissues, and transported in the blood plasma of all animals. Plant tissues are also found to have trace amounts of cholesterols. Cholesterols are found to be in higher concentration in those body parts where the membranes are densely packed like liver, spinal chord and brain. The high density lipoprotein that constitutes about 25 to 30 % of the blood cholesterol and protects us against heart attacks and many other ailments and hence is termed as the good cholesterol. However there is a negative side of the cholesterol too and is medically termed as the low density lipoprotein. This is of much concern to many as it can cause obesity including many other heart related ailments and other health hazards.

Role of diet in lowering cholesterol levels:

Diet plays an important role in maintaining the balance of the cholesterol levels within the body. A proper regime for lowering cholesterol levels may not only include diet of fresh and healthy food items but also exercises and medications. For lowering the levels of cholesterols the first thing one should do is to be aware of how much cholesterols he or she is having in the body. This can be done by regular checking of cholesterols. A diet comprising of vegetables like olive, canola, sesame, sunflower oil, and soybean oil is very good alternative for unsaturated animal fats. For lowering cholesterols the diet would suggest fresh vegetables and fruits instead of fried snacks. It should be noted that regular diary foods like milk, ice creams and cheese are high in cholesterol and they should be replaced by nonfat yoghurt, skimmed milk and nonfat or fat free cheese. High protein rich foods like beef and pork should be replaced by chicken.

Importance of intake of starches and fibers:

Inclusion of more starches and fiber in the diet can help in the lowering of cholesterol levels as well as reduce the risks of obesity cancer, high blood pressure and other heart ailments that related with it. Fresh fruits, vegetables and unprocessed grains like whole grain breads and cereals are naturally low in fat, cholesterol free and rich in starches and dietary fibers.

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