A low carb low cholesterol diet is recommended for people who need to keep their cholesterol levels in check. The diet is generally prescribed by doctors to people who suffer from health problems like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and blocking of arteries, to name a few. The diet is also voluntarily followed by those who want to lose some weight or want to maintain their current weight. In addition, conscious eaters who prefer to eat healthy follow the diet voluntarily.
The most important thing to be noted about a diet low in carbohydrates is that it is not a starvation diet and does not encourage giving up on food.
Main Features of a Low Carb Low Cholesterol Diet
A diet low in carbohydrates promotes low cholesterol in the long run. While there is no single diet plan to be followed, there are some general rules which are to be followed. Mostly, these diet plans are custom-made by the personal physician and dietician, keeping in mind the age, individual requirements, limitation, etc., of a patient. It is, therefore, important to consult the doctor before following any low carb diet plan.
Some common features of generally followed low carb low cholesterol diet are:
Elimination/Strict Regulation of red meat: The consumption of red meats, like bacon and beef, is greatly discouraged and it is replaced with white, soft meats, like chicken and fish, which are lighter and easier to digest. White meats are also low in fat and calorie contents and are therefore good for bringing cholesterol levels down in the long run.
Elimination/Strict Regulation of processed and canned foods: Processed and canned foods are categorized as 'synthetic' and are generally considered harmful for the health, especially for someone following a low carb diet. Instead of canned and processed foods, the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables is encouraged. Also, freshly squeezed juice is favored over packaged juice. It is, however, important to note that juices are given in strictly controlled quantities and consumption of raw fruits is advised.
Elimination/Strict Regulation of full-fat milk and processed dairy products: Toned milk is favored over full-fat or partially toned milk. Also, processed dairy products like cheese and tofu are greatly discouraged when following a low carb low cholesterol diet. Home-made alternatives are preferred.
As a part of the diet, consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, low fat beverages and healthy recipes is encouraged and advised.
Foods to be Avoided
When following a diet which is low in carbohydrates in order to control cholesterol levels, high calorie and fat foods are strictly avoided. Preparations which are rich and lavish are not consumed and alcoholic beverages, cola drinks, tea and coffee are also consumed in very small and regulated quantities.
References
To read more about what constitutes a low carb low cholesterol diet and what foods are to be avoided, visit:
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