The truth about cholesterol
Often associated with life-threatening heart disease, there is more to cholesterol than just being a detriment to health. Cholesterol is described as a “soft, fat-like, waxy substance” that is found in our bloodstream and in all the cells in the body. While there are lots of misconceptions about cholesterol being the root cause of heart disease, there is little we know about its being an integral part of our health.
Did you know?
- That cholesterol is mainly used in the production of cell membranes and some hormones?
- That there exists good cholesterol that may prevent heart disease?
Battle of the good and the evil: HDL and LDL cholesterols
HDL and LDL are two kinds of lipoproteins that are essential in transporting cholesterol to and from the cells. HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein while LDL means low-density lipoprotein.
Determining the good and the bad cholesterols
When too much LDL is in the blood, it may form into a thick substance in the inner walls of the arteries. This dense substance could clog the normal flow of blood. This makes LDL the bad cholesterol that may lead to major complications in the heart.
On the contrary, HDL represents the good cholesterol. When maintained at high levels, HDL cholesterol may prevent the risk of coronary heart disease.
Good to Know:
Low fat = 0% cholesterol?
Even if food labels say that some products are low-fat, this does not automatically mean that these products are cholesterol-free. These low-fat products may contain trans-fat and saturated fats that could dramatically increase your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
What are trans-fats?
Also called partially hydrogenated oils, trans fatty acids (trans-fat) are used in food to give it more flavor and texture. As our food tastes better with trans-fats, our LDL is increased and our HDL is lowered. Foods that may be low-fat, but contain trans-fat could raise the risk of coronary heart disease and type-2 diabetes.
What are saturated fats?
Meat and dairy products contain saturated fats. Carbon atoms saturated with hydrogen atoms make up these saturated fats. Foods that are high in saturated fats are high in cholesterol. Again, too much bad cholesterol circulating the bloodstream puts us in danger of heart disease.
 Making the right choice: why chia is good for you
GreenCow Chia promises the best for your heart.
- 0% cholesterol
- 0% trans-fat
Instead of eating foods high in trans-fat and saturated fats like commercial hamburgers, fried chicken, donuts, etc., try foods that are rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. GreenCow Chia offers the highest amount of these healthful fats, higher than any other food source! GreenCow Chia helps lower your LDL and increases your HDL, balancing your cholesterol profile. GreenCow Chia has been recommended by Diabetologists and Cardiologists in America and Europe!
References:
American Heart Association. (2009). What is cholesterol?, last updated April 7, 2008. Retrieved May 3, 2009, from http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3046103
American Heart Association. (2009). Saturated fats, last updated January 2009. Retrieved May 4, 2009, from http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3045790
American Heart Association. (2009). Trans fats, last updated January 2009. Retrieved May 3, 2009, from http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=3045792 |
