Now that we’re all staying indoors more, our health may be suffering as we indulge in more unhealthy foods, impacting our cholesterol levels.
Whilst cholesterol is one of those health conditions we know of, most don’t really know about it. To help take control of your health and cholesterol, I’ve put together a list of the biggest myths when it comes to our understanding of cholesterol.
- Eating fat leads to weight gain
False: If we eat too much of any macronutrient, including fat, it can make you gain weight, however consuming healthy fats vs unhealthy fats as part of a healthy balanced diet does not lead to weight gain. Adding healthy fat to meals and snacks may facilitate weight loss by boosting feelings of fullness. - Eating too many eggs will give you high cholesterol
False: Eggs are a great source of protein and other nutrients. They’re also naturally high in cholesterol but not the type that raises cholesterol levels in the blood. Up to 7 eggs a week is what’s recommended. - Medicine is not needed to manage cholesterol levels
False: many people can achieve good cholesterol levels by making healthy food choices getting enough physical activity and losing weight. But some people may also need medicines called statins to lower their cholesterol levels. - You can’t naturally lower your cholesterol levels
False: A healthy high fibre diet, combined with exercise can help to naturally lower cholesterol levels. Stopping smoking and drinking less alcohol are also important. It has also been shown that plant sterols are effective in helping to achieve cholesterol management. Starting the day with a high fibre breakfast cereal like Sultana Bran+ with Cholesterol Lowering Plant Sterols can help you get your recommended intake of plant sterols in just one serve.