Why You Should Be Eating More Fat And Carbohydrates

Cholesterol, that uncomfortable word we love to hate. In part due to the misconception that all cholesterol is bad and in part due to the health risks associated with elevated levels of LDL (the “bad” cholesterol). With high LDL levels linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, it’s not a matter to be taken lightly. We now know that exercise and medication can help manage cholesterol, however, there are also “superfoods” which we could be incorporating into our diets to help keep LDL levels at bay and the fun part - most are fats and carbohydrates (the good kind). Now before you get too excited and reach for the takeaway menu, it's time to get aquatinted with fats done right. 

1. Oats: Containing a soluble fiber called beta-glucan, oats have been shown to lower cholesterol by as much as 20%. Reaching for a morning bowl will not only keep you feeling fuller for longer and will cut out those mid- morning snacks, it will also help maintain healthy arteries. 

2. Almonds and Walnuts: Rich in both monounsaturated and omega-3 fatty acids, eating a handful of nuts each day is proven to help lower cholesterol by up to 15%. The added benefit, omega-3 fatty acids are also known for their anti-ageing properties, boosting skin health. 

3. Olive Oil: The word ‘cholesterol’ conjures an anti-oil and fats sentiment amongst many. However not all fats are bad. In fact, monounsaturated fats are crucial to keeping healthy cholesterol levels and olive oil is one of the most potent sources of these crucial fatty acids. Make those dry, boring lunch salads a thing of the past with a drizzle of health olive oil during your next lunch break. 

4. Salmon: Research shows that certain fats help keep cholesterol at bay. Omega-3 fatty acids help lower LDL levels, raising the good HDL cholesterol and when it comes to omega-3, salmon is one of nature's most potent sources. 

5.Avocado: As one of the richest sources of heart-healthy, mono-saturated fats, avocados aid in lowering bad cholesterol and concurrently raising HDL (good cholesterol) levels. They are also one of the most potent sources of beta-sitosterol, which helps reduce the amount of bad cholesterol our body absorbs from other foods.