How to manage Cholesterol?
According to a 1998 Columbia University, 1% drop in dietary saturated fat can result in 1% drop in LDL or 2% drop in CHD. If diet and exercise are not enough doctors may prescribe drugs, known as Statin, Niacin, Resins (Guggul is popular in India), and Fibric acid. These are beyond the scope of this website.
In most of the cases, the Cholesterol levels can be brought within acceptable range through proper diet and increases physical activity. For a moderate physical activity (contributing to 200 kCal/day), the following Dietary intake is suggested by NECP.
| Dietary Items |
Percentage of Total Calories |
2,000 Calories per day |
| kCal |
grams/day |
| Maximum Saturated |
7% |
140 |
16 |
| Maximum Polyunsaturated fats |
10% |
200 |
22 |
| Maximum Monounsaturated fat |
20% |
400 |
44 |
| Total fat |
25 to 35% |
500 to 750 |
56 to 83 |
| Carbohydrates |
50 to 60% |
1,000 to 1,200 |
250 to 300 |
| Protein |
15% |
300 |
75 |
| Fiber |
20 to 30 grams |
| Dietary Cholesterol |
Less than 200 mg/day |
Note 1: In this table trans-fats are not given. They are assumed to be part of saturated fat. In 2006, the trans fats requirements are expected to formalized.
Note 2: NCEP allows higher total fat intake than the USDA dietary guideline. Majority of the fats should be monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Unsaturated fats reduce reduce triglycerides and raise HDL.
Some of the PUFAs are essential and can not be made by the body. Fish ( Salmon, Trout, and Herring) are high in omega-3 fatty acids commonly called EPA and DHA. Omega3 fatty acids are a form of PUFAs. Nuts and seeds such as (Flax, Walnuts) are excellent source of essential fatty acids. Almonds, Sunflower seeds, and Hazel nuts are good source of Vitamin E.
Note 3: Majority of Carbohydrates are derived from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Limit use of refined carbohydrates and simple sugars. They can be converted into triglycerides if not used up by physical activity.
Note 4: After six week, NCEP suggests as a therapeutic option of plant stanol/sterols (2 gram/day) and viscous fiber (15 to 20 gram/day) if needed.
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