Newswise — Even as millions of people are embracing a low-carbohydrate diet, new research shows that people need to strive more than ever to lower their levels of damaging LDL cholesterol. While research on how low-carb diets affect cholesterol remains inconclusive, many foods that low-carb dieters often favor—such as red meats, cheese, and eggs—contain high levels of unhealthy saturated fat, which is known to increase LDL cholesterol levels. What to do about High Cholesterol, a newly revised report edited by a Harvard Medical School lipid specialist, discusses what effects a low-carb diet may have on your cholesterol and provides a step-by-step program for bringing your cholesterol under control.
The report outlines some reasons why people with cholesterol problems should think twice about jumping on the low-carb bandwagon, including these:
"¢ The link between saturated fat and heart disease is well established."¢ Low-carb diets are very low in fiber. Many studies worldwide link a high intake of fiber with a reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes."¢ Some low-carb diets are low in fruits and vegetables. Many studies link a high intake of fruits and vegetables with a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.
This 50-page Special Health Report also provides an in-depth look at the role diet plays on cholesterol levels in the body, helps you evaluate your risk of heart disease, and offers advice on ways to maintain healthy cholesterol levels, including making changes in diet, exercising, and taking cholesterol-lowering medication as appropriate.
What to do about High Cholesterol is available from Harvard Health Publications, the publishing division of Harvard Medical School, for $16. Purchase a copy at http://www.health.harvard.edu or by calling 1-877-649-9457 (toll free).
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