Is it safe to eat red meat with high cholesterol? - Times Now

Lean cuts of beef have 4.5 grams of saturated fats in a single serving and extra lean cuts offer 2 grams of the same.

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New Delhi: Being a patient of high cholesterol can be daunting as often the discovery is made long after things go out of hand unless one goes for regular health check-ups. High cholesterol is when the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels are higher than high-density lipoproteins (HDL) – and that too, without any prominent symptoms. Not controlling high cholesterol levels can over time raise the risk of a stroke and heart attack too.

On the one hand, doctors say that limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking, and abstaining from saturated and trans fats can help control cholesterol levels. But many times, people wonder whether or not it is safe to eat red meat.

How does red meat affect cholesterol patients?

Many often believe that eating red meat is directly associated with high cholesterol – however, experts say that it depends on the portion size, the cut, and the foods paired with it. Therefore, it is the overeating patterns that make all the difference.

How to eat red meat for high cholesterol?

Red meat has for long held a poor rep for heart health and that is blamed on the saturated fat content of the food. However, research shows that not all beef-eating populations have high cholesterol – there are a few leaner cuts with less saturated fats. According to experts, combining it with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains could help control blood lipids.

The study also evaluated the inclusion of lean beef in a Mediterranean diet – 42 per cent carbohydrates, 17 per cent proteins, 41 per cent fat and 8 per cent saturated fats. High intake of saturated fats can increase LDL levels – therefore, limited quantities are recommended.

Lean cuts of beef have 4.5 grams of saturated fats in a single serving and extra lean cuts offer 2 grams of the same. The leanest cuts are:

1. Top round roast
2. Sirloin
3. Sirloin tip steak

Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before starting any fitness programme or making any changes to your diet.

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Is it safe to eat red meat with high cholesterol? - Times Now
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