Easy Diet Tips to Help Seniors Lower Their Cholesterol
One of the most common health issues that seniors today face is high cholesterol. Unfortunately, having too much bad cholesterol in your system can lead to cardiovascular disease and can increase the risk of having a stroke or heart attack. Too much bad cholesterol will also clog the arteries. This is why it is so important for seniors who may have high cholesterol levels to understand how to keep their cholesterol in check.
Most issues with bad cholesterol are directly linked to diet. The good news is, this can make it easier for seniors to manage their cholesterol levels and lower their bad cholesterol levels so they can keep their cardiovascular system as healthy as possible. Here are a few ways that seniors can easily lower their cholesterol levels with smart and healthy lifestyle choices.
- Remove Trans and Saturated Fats From the Diet- These foods are going to cause cholesterol levels to spike and unfortunately, trans and saturated fats are quite common, especially in processed foods. This is because these types of fats can actually extend an item?s shelf life. Make sure to read all labels to look for trans fats in processed foods. You should also note that saturated fats can be found in items from animal products such as eggs, butter, cheese and meat. These foods aren?t as bad as processed items and should only be enjoyed in moderation.
- Add Fruits, Veggies and Healthy Fats to the Diet- While there are many foods that need to be avoided, there are also just as many foods that you should add to your loved one?s diet as well. Lots of fruits and vegetables are important for a low cholesterol diet. They can help reduce bad cholesterol levels and are filled with soluble fibers that can naturally lower your cholesterol as well. There are also good fats that you can add to the diet like polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. This comes from fish, nuts, beans, seeds and avocados.
- Eat Whole Grains- Replace white rice and beans with plenty of whole grains like wild rice and whole-wheat breads. You should also avoid foods and breads with refined flour in them. Other great sources of whole grains are oatmeal and old-fashioned oats. They are filled with fiber and can be great for lowering bad cholesterol.
The right diet can go a long way for any senior who wants to lower their cholesterol. If you are looking after a senior loved one, make sure that they are going to the doctor regularly to have their cholesterol checked. You can also help them make these smart diet choices to help seniors lower their cholesterol and continue to stay as healthy as possible.
Author Profile
- Lori Thomas has decades of experience as a caregiver. Her writing for SeniorAdvice.com is informed by years of research as well as hands-on family experience caring for her now late mother, who had chronic health issues for most of her life. Lori is an integral part of the SeniorAdvice.com management team, acting as Vice President of Marketing and Chief Editor.
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