Updated: February 18, 2023 23:47
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Cholesterol is a fatty compound found in blood and body cells. There are two types of cholesterol: low density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad cholesterol” which can clog arteries, and high density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good cholesterol” which helps clear cholesterol from arteries. Actually cholesterol is needed by the body to build cell walls, produce hormones and certain vitamins. However, too much cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
This is because when the level of cholesterol in the blood increases too much, it can lead to the deposition of cholesterol on the artery walls and the formation of plaque. This plaque can constrict blood vessels and reduce blood flow to organs connected to these blood vessels. If the plaque continues to get bigger. This has the potential to cause narrowing or even total blockage of the arteries, which can result in a heart attack or stroke.
This increase in cholesterol can be influenced by various factors. Starting from genetic factors, rarely exercising, smoking habits to consuming foods with high saturated fat content too often.
Here are 6 types of foods that cause cholesterol that need to be limited consumption
1. Animal Internal Organs
The entrails and organs of animals or commonly known as innards, such as intestines, tripe to the brain are indeed the most enjoyable parts but the most evil. Offal contains more cholesterol than the meat. The content of saturated fat in offal varies depending on the type of offal and the animal used. However, in general, the saturated fat content in it is quite high.
For example, beef kidneys contain about 5.5 grams of fat per ounce, with about 1.7 grams of this coming from saturated fat. Meanwhile, beef brain contains about 11.4 grams of fat per ounce, with about 4 grams of which comes from saturated fat.
Therefore, if you want to consume offal, it is advisable to choose offal from healthy animals and in a balanced amount. Do not eat offal too often or in excessive amounts.
2. Fast Food
Fast food generally contains high saturated fat and calories, which can cause an increase in blood cholesterol levels if consumed in excess. Some types of fast food, such as burgers, french fries, and fried chicken, can be high in cholesterol and saturated fat.
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