Many of us might have heard the term cholesterol commonly on TV ads, but would not be aware of what exactly it is and what is the function of cholesterol in our body. Cholesterol is considered vital for good health; however it is known the fact that excess of everything is bad. Same goes for cholesterol, which is a fat-like substance produced by the liver. We also get cholesterol from the foods that we eat.

Excess of cholesterol level in the blood can cause heart diseases and allied problems. Cholesterol has its functions when it comes to helping in the digestion of foods, production of necessary hormones, and generation of vitamin D. However when the level of cholesterol in the blood rises beyond necessity, it can cause of various severe diseases. Normal amounts of cholesterol are good for the body.

Cholesterol can be of two type- LDP (low-density lipoproteins, bad cholesterol) and HDP (high-density lipoproteins, good cholesterol). The amount of cholesterol in the body is profoundly affected by the kind of food that we consume. Different categories of foods have different impacts on the level of cholesterol levels in the body. Thus, it becomes mandatory to get yourself checked and make necessary alterations in your diet.

Food that increases cholesterol include mainly the ones with high levels of saturated fats. Too much consumption of fatty foods will lead to high cholesterol levels in the body.

FOODS THAT INCREASE YOUR CHOLESTEROL:

• Fatty meat and meat products
• Full fat cheese, yogurt, cream and milk
• Ghee & butter
• Palm oil, coconut oil and coconut cream.
• Hard margarines
• Cake, pastry, pudding

Foods that decrease the cholesterol

Some food items which should be included in the diet for people affected with cholesterol related problems are fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, chia seeds, oats, beans, and legumes.

• Olive oil
• Beans and legumes
• Whole grains
• High-fiber fruit
• Fatty fish
• Flax
• Nuts
• Avocado
• Garlic
• Chia seeds
• Oats