Diet and Health FAQ

Tagged As: Carbohydrate Low Cholesterol Diet

Question:
I have managed through a low fat mostly vegatairan diet to get my weight down from 205 to 173 and my total cholestoral from 278 to 175. My doc says I'm doing a great job and its keeping me off statins, which at my age, 48, he's not crazy about prescribing for borderline high cholestoral cases. He would, though, ideally, like to see my cholestoral drop to 140. I would, too. But I can't amagine elimiating too much more animal product from my diet. I do sushi (with brown rice) once a week or so for protein and use non-fat milk in my cappuccinos. I'm loath to give up fish once a week because of the protein. But I'm wondering about the low-fat milk. It is zero fat but five units of cholesterol per glass. Is that a lot? neglible comparted to the 8 - 12 oz of fish each week? Should I give up one? Which one? Both?

Answer:
Total cholesterol of 175 is pretty darn good. Most are worried about LDL, HDL and Triglycerides. What are your numbers? About 1/3 of the population are dietarily insensitive to cholesterol. Meaning no matter what you eat, your cholesterol is not affected one way or the other. If you are eating a primarily carbohydrate diet (VLF and some animal protein), then your post prandial triglycerides (blood fat) are probably very stable and very low throughout the day. That fasting blood test may not be a totally accurate picture of your blood lipids over the course of 24 hours. Personally I would be happy with what you are doing and your diet, add in some exercise if you havent already. I dont know what weight you are shooting for but so far youre doing a fantastic job, keep it up. Enjoy your cappuccino, enjoy your fish and stop worrying about things you can't even see. If your body looks good and feels good, it is good.