Cholesterol: A new type?
A recent publication on ScienceDaily gives us one more reason to avoid fast and processed food: oxycholesterol. In Little Known Type Of Cholesterol -- Oxycholesterol -- May Pose The Greatest Heart Disease Risk, they detail a study done by Chinese scientists that relays some not so good news to fast food loving Americans: "Now scientists are reporting that another form of cholesterol called oxycholesterol — virtually unknown to the public — may be the most serious cardiovascular health threat of all."
Cholesterol from fast food and processed food
"Fried and processed food, particularly fast-food, contains high amounts of oxycholesterol", they report from their recent study funded by the Hong Kong Grant Research Council.
Most of us are aware of the dangers of high LDL cholesterol and of high total cholesterol. We are even aware of the dangers of eating too much junk food, but this study gives a new ring of truth to the warnings about eating processed and fast food.
Cholesterol: Eating healthy may reduce levels of oxycholesterol
There is a good ending to this story, though. "Avoiding these foods and eating a diet that is rich in antioxidants, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, may help reduce its levels in the body, the researchers note” reports ScienceDaily. The study also notes that antioxidants "may block the oxidation process that forms oxycholesterol" Good sources of antioxidants include "fruits, veggies, beans, and certain herbs and spices". They also suggest eating whole grains, fresh vegetables, seed and nuts.
So if you're watching your cholesterol, there's one more reason to eat your veggies. In addition to eating healthy, know your BMI and include a reasonable exercise plan, which both affect your overall health.
Always talk to your doctor before you embark on a new diet or a new exercise plan.
Tip of the Week:
Never eat more than one plate of food at a meal so your body will become accustomed to eating a healthy amount of food... even if it takes some time, your body will eventually adjust.
References:
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/08/090820123923.htm
Comments
Wow! The first time I've heard of this. Breaking news for me, Lynn! Good show.
Fascinating info, thanks!
Fortunately I don't usually eat fast food but cholesterol is still a problem because of my thyroid. :-(
Never heard of this either. Breaking news for to me too. Thanks for letting us know, I think, unfortunately I love those bad things for me too much!!
So glad I am not into fast food or processed foods.
Definitely good to know! I really like your tip this week - I eat healthy foods in unhealthy amounts quite often, so the tip is one I need to remember!
Good information to know. Fast food is becoming less and less appealing.
Thanks for the heads-up, Lynn. I knew there were plenty of reasons to avoid fast food!
absolutely great article, Lynn,
Great tips! Thanks for the useful info!
This was interesting and informative. Another reason to keep up with the antioxidants, that's for sure.
Wow! I had not heard of this either. This is important to know! Thank God I eat very little fast food these days!
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