As we get older, our cholesterol levels change. Doctors are not really sure how aging affects the composition and function of HDL, aka high-density lipoproteins levels; however, research has proven there is a significant change from our youth, and the food we eat plays an intricate part. Cholesterol in the body Cholesterol is a waxy substance that’s found in all of your cells and has several useful functions, including helping to build your body’s cells. It’s carried through your bloodstream attached to proteins. These proteins are called lipoproteins. Our LDL or low-density lipoproteins, build up within the walls of our blood vessels and narrow the passageways, as we age. Significant…
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Assessing Your Vitamin D Level for Weight Loss Success
HAPPY NEW YEAR! Everyone knows the most popular new year resolutions are… …lose weight …eat more healthy …exercise more. My 2019 resolutions? ALL OF THE ABOVE! Today, I made my bi-annual trip to my internal medicine physician and my cholesterol numbers were slightly elevated; however, my HDL, or good cholesterol had also increased! My doctor strongly advocates starting cholesterol medicine, or statins. I know several people who are currently taking statins and they are suffering from the horrible side effects. Also, statins can destroy your liver, especially those under 60 years old. Therefore, I will continue my attempts at lowering my LDL cholesterol numbers through nutrition and exercise. Incorporating…
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8 Ways to Lower Bad Cholesterol and Triglycerides
A recent health checkup caused me to reassess my dietary needs. My labs results indicated a jump in my LDL, or bad cholesterol numbers. My husband, recently evaluated due to a new health program at work, was told his triglyceride numbers were too high. What are LDL and triglycerides? LDL or low-density lipoprotein, is the “less desirable” type of cholesterol in your body, (that is how I remember which is which.) LDL causes plaque build up in arteries, which causes blood to be restricted and can result in heart attacks, heart disease and strokes. I already have a family history of heart disease and my father has survived several heart…
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Pasta Can Be Healthy
DAY 6 of my 100 Days of Real Food Challenge and my #1 issue is PASTA! I crave it constantly. Scientific research claims when we crave carbohydrates, it is usually due to the association of comfort and our mood. Besides the energy boost, carbohydrates provide solace during stressful times. Although I don’t feel it, subconsciously, I probably am stressed due to my food restrictions for 100 days!The Process of Pasta Most standard pasta is made with refined bleached or unbleached flour, which is on the restricted list. During the refining process, the nutrient-rich outer bran shell and inner germ layer are removed from the grain, leaving just the starchy endosperm. …
