Introduction to Low Saturated, Low Cholesterol Diets
Understand the basics
Eating too much saturated fat and dietary cholesterol in your diet can raise the amount of total cholesterol, and more importantly, the LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol carrier form of cholesterol in your blood. LDL cholesterol is also known as the "bad" cholesterol as a high amount in your blood can increase your risk of heart disease. LDL cholesterol contributes to the buildup of cholesterol and other debris (also known as
plaque) along the lining of the walls of your arteries. This buildup can cause your arteries to narrow and reduce the flow of nutrient-and oxygen-rich blood to your heart, as well as other parts of your body. If your heart is deprived of adequate amounts of blood, a heart attack can occur. Even though both saturated fat and dietary cholesterol can raise your LDL cholesterol, saturated fat is the bigger dietary culprit.
Since your diet can play such an important role in helping lower the "bad" LDL cholesterol, it is not surprising that many individuals have come to realize that they can fight heart disease with a knife and fork.
What Is a Low Saturated Fat, Low Cholesterol Diet?
A heart-healthy, low saturated fat, low cholesterol diet is one that minimizes these substances in the diet in an attempt to lower your blood cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease. When following a low saturated fat, low cholesterol diet, the saturated fat in your diet should contribute no more than 10 percent* of your daily calorie intake. You should also keep the amount of dietary cholesterol that you eat to less than 300 milligrams daily. The chart below can help you determine the upper limits for both saturated fat and dietary cholesterol based on your daily calorie needs.
*Note: Some individuals who are at a high risk for heart disease or presently have heart disease may need to keep their saturated fat intake to under 7 percent of their daily calories. Always check with your health professional for personalized advice.
