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Time of India
a day ago
- Health
- Time of India
Got high cholesterol? Doctors say this common habit could be making it worse
According to the American Heart Association, heart disease has been the leading cause of death in the U.S. for over 100 years. One major reason people get heart disease is high cholesterol , which can block arteries and lead to heart attacks or strokes. While we can't control every cause, doctors say we can lower our risk by managing cholesterol levels. Cardiologist Dr. Patrick Kee from Houston says that even if you're on cholesterol medication , what you eat still plays a huge role. Simple changes like eating less fatty food or more vegetables can lower cholesterol over time and prevent serious heart problems later. So it's not just about pills — lifestyle matters too, as per Parade. Explore courses from Top Institutes in Please select course: Select a Course Category others Technology Degree Operations Management Data Science CXO Healthcare Others Public Policy healthcare MCA Artificial Intelligence PGDM Data Analytics Cybersecurity Management Data Science Digital Marketing Leadership Product Management MBA Project Management Design Thinking Finance Skills you'll gain: Duration: 16 Weeks Indian School of Business CERT - ISB Cybersecurity for Leaders Program India Starts on undefined Get Details Saturated fats are the biggest problem Cardiologists are now urgently warning people with high cholesterol to cut down on saturated fats. Dr. Bradley Serwer, a heart doctor, says eating too much of these fats increases your risk of heart disease a lot. Saturated fats affect your bad cholesterol (LDL) more than even dietary cholesterol does, as per the reports. ALSO READ: This soap bar trick is going viral with gardeners — here's why you should try it too Dr. Bhavna Suri explains that saturated fat makes your liver produce more LDL cholesterol, which is the bad kind. LDL can stick to artery walls and form plaque, which narrows your arteries. This condition is called atherosclerosis, and it can lead to heart attacks and strokes. Saturated fats are common in red meat, butter, cheese, and full-fat dairy. Live Events Most people eat more fat than they realize The American Heart Association recommends that less than 6% of your daily calories come from saturated fats. If you eat 2,000 calories a day, that's only about 13 grams of saturated fat. It's not much, and many people eat way more without realizing it. Dr. Jeffrey Carstens says that many people struggle to avoid saturated fat because it's in so many popular foods like ice cream, pastries, and fast food. Even "healthy-looking" food can have hidden saturated fats. Most people don't check the nutrition label on the back of the package — and that's where the truth is, as per Parade report. Food labels can be tricky It might still have a lot of saturated fat, or may be loaded with sugar or salt instead. Dr. Kee says just because something says 'reduced fat' doesn't mean it's healthy. Also, people often focus too much on protein and end up eating red meats, which are high in both protein and saturated fat. ALSO READ: Coca Cola rival Poppi to pay $8.9 million to soda drinkers — no receipt needed to claim your share Dr. Kee also points out that when people are busy, they turn to fast food and ready-to-eat meals, which are usually high in saturated fat, added sugar, and sodium. So convenience leads to bad food choices, as stated by reports. Easy ways to eat better for your heart Fiber-rich foods like apples, leafy greens, oats, and quinoa help you feel full, lower cholesterol, and naturally replace fatty foods. Dr. Kee suggests that half of your plate should be vegetables every time you eat. Switching to chicken (without skin), fish, beans, or lentils can cut down saturated fat intake. While red meat provides protein, it also contains more saturated fat. Dr. Kee recommends trying 'Meatless Monday' or going vegetarian at least one day a week to explore healthier protein options, as per the Parade report. Not all fats are bad. Dr. Serwer says swap saturated fats for monounsaturated fats, like those in olive oil or avocado oil. These are better for your heart and can still taste great in cooking, says Dr. Carstens. ALSO READ: LinkedIn job applications surge 45% as AI tools like ChatGPT, resume Bots, and hiring automation take over the job search in 2025 Many processed foods contain hidden saturated fats, even if they say 'healthy' on the front. A simple rule is to choose foods that have 1 gram or less of saturated fat per 100 calories. Also, watch out for 'low fat' foods that may have too much sugar or salt, as per Dr. Suri. Dr. Serwer says the best way to eat healthy is to know what's in your food, which is only possible when you make it yourself. Eating out at restaurants can sneak in extra fats and salt, and the nutrition info isn't always clear, as per the report by Parade. FAQs Q1. What is the worst habit for people with high cholesterol? Eating too much saturated fat is the top habit doctors say can make high cholesterol worse. Q2. Which foods should I avoid if I have high cholesterol? Avoid red meat, full-fat dairy, butter, and processed foods high in saturated fat, even if labeled 'healthy.'
Yahoo
a day ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP
Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP originally appeared on Parade. Heart disease has been the leading cause of death for U.S. adults for a century, according to American Heart Association data. There are many reasons why someone may die from cardiovascular disease, and we can't control all of them. Yet, understanding risk factors and how to control what we can is critical, like managing high cholesterol if you have is one way. However, Dr. Patrick Kee, MD, Ph.D., a cardiologist with Vital Heart & Vein in Houston, explains that lifestyle tweaks like diet are crucial, whether you benefit from medication for cholesterol or not. The good news?"Even minor adjustments to your diet can lead to significant clinical benefits if maintained over time, emphasizing the profound impact of self-care in managing high cholesterol and reducing the risk of future heart attacks and strokes," Dr. Kee various factors can complicate even making small changes to your diet, and you may unintentionally be consuming some heart-unfriendly foods. Cardiologists share the one habit to break if you have high cholesterol.🩺 💊 The No. 1 Habit Cardiologists Want People With High Cholesterol To Break ASAP Cardiologists are urging people with high cholesterol to not overlook saturated fat consumption. "We see a significant increase in heart disease risk with high consumption of saturated fats," warns Dr. Bradley Serwer, MD, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health research suggests that saturated fat is more likely to affect cholesterol levels than dietary cholesterol, although this can vary from person to person. Not all fats are bad—monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that remain liquid at room temperature can have heart-healthy benefits. However, saturated fats, which solidify at room temperature, can pose risks, including higher odds of developing high cholesterol or having complications if you already do. "Saturated fat, typically found in animal products like red meats and full-fat dairy, influences your liver to produce higher levels of LDL—'bad'—cholesterol in your blood," explains , a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology in NYC and contributor. "LDL cholesterol circulates in your blood and can stick to artery walls, forming plaque. Over time, this plaque narrows arteries—a condition called atherosclerosis—and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes."For this reason, Dr. Suri notes that the American Heart Association recommends limiting your saturated fat consumption to less than 6% of your daily calories."This roughly translates to about 13 grams of saturated fat per day, if someone is consuming 2,000 calories per day," she notes. Related: Why It's Hard To Monitor Saturated Fat—Even With High Cholesterol Limiting saturated fat intake is difficult, even if you've gotten doctor's orders to do so for high cholesterol, concedes Dr. Jeffrey Carstens, MD, MBA, a cardiologist with UnityPoint Health."Controlling saturated fat intake is challenging for many individuals due to its prevalence in a wide array of appealing foods, including many fast-food options, often without obvious labeling," he says. "Frequently unrecognized sources include processed foods, such as ice cream and baked goods."The labels on the front of a food container don't always help you make the best decisions for your cholesterol. "Food labels can be misleading," Dr. Kee reports. "A 'reduced-fat' food might still be high in saturated fat or might contain higher amounts of sugar or sodium, which can confuse consumers trying to make healthier choices." Dr. Kee adds that the current hyperfocus on macronutrients—especially protein—can also lead people to reach for foods high in saturated fat. For instance, red meat is an "excellent" source of protein and saturated fat. Also? We're human. "Lifestyle factors like time constraints often lead individuals to opt for convenience foods, which are typically high in saturated fat, added sugars and sodium," he How To Eat Less Saturated Fat It's hard to reduce your saturated fat intake. However, cardiologists emphasize that it's not impossible and is worth doing if you have high cholesterol or want to prevent it. "Reducing saturated fat intake is one of the most effective ways to protect heart health—and it doesn't have to mean giving up on flavor," Dr. Suri how to eat less saturated fat: 1. Prioritize fruits, vegetables and whole grains Deprivation is not on the menu when you're trying to manage cholesterol. Dr. Carstens recommends fiber-rich foods. Think apples, leafy greens and quinoa. "Loading up on these naturally low-fat and high-fiber foods helps displace higher-fat options in your diet and promotes fullness," he time you serve yourself a meal, take a look at your plate. Dr. Kee recommends loading half of it with vegetables. 2. Opt for leaner or plant-based protein Protein is an essential macronutrient, but Dr. Carstens says that choosing leaner cuts or plant-based options can help you cut back on saturated fat intake. Think skinless chicken, fish and legumes. If your cravings call for red meat, opt for a leaner cut. Dr. Kee is a fan of Meatless Monday, though any day to go full-on vegetarian works."Aim for at least one meatless meal per week to explore new protein options," he recommends. 3. Replace saturated fats Remember, "fat" isn't a dirty word, even when you're trying to reduce your cholesterol. The type of fat you regularly use to drizzle on salads or cook with can make a significant difference in your heart health. "Replace saturated fats with healthier options," Dr. Serwer advises. "Some excellent options include olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter or coconut oil." 4. Become a label detective When perusing the grocery store, be sure to look at the back of the food bag or canister, which paints a clearer picture of whether it's heart-friendly. "Many packaged and processed foods contain hidden saturated fats, even ones labeled healthy," Dr. Suri cardiologists emphasize that it's not impossible, and is worth doing if you have high cholesterol or want to prevent it. "A simple guideline is to choose foods with no more than 1 gram of saturated fat per 100 calories," Dr. Kee notes. "However, be mindful that 'reduced-fat' products might compensate with higher sugar or sodium content." 5. Limit eating out Many chain menus post nutrition information, and it's worth taking the time to read. However, Dr. Serwer says opting for home-cooked meals more often than not is a best practice for your heart health (and wallet, if we're being honest). "The best way to reduce saturated fats is to know what you are eating," he says. "Try your best to avoid eating at restaurants where ingredients are unknown." Up Next:Sources: Heart and Stroke Statistics. American Heart Association. Dr. Patrick Kee, MD, Ph.D., a cardiologist with Vital Heart & Vein in Houston Dr. Bradley Serwer, MD, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health company Dietary saturated fat and cholesterol: cracking the myths around eggs and cardiovascular disease. Journal of Nutritional Science. The Skinny on Fats. American Heart Association. Dr. Bhavna Suri, MD, a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology in NYC and contributor Saturated Fats. American Heart Association. Dr. Jeffrey Carstens, MD, MBA, a cardiologist with UnityPoint Health Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP first appeared on Parade on Jul 21, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 21, 2025, where it first appeared. Solve the daily Crossword
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP
Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP originally appeared on Parade. Heart disease has been the leading cause of death for U.S. adults for a century, according to American Heart Association data. There are many reasons why someone may die from cardiovascular disease, and we can't control all of them. Yet, understanding risk factors and how to control what we can is critical, like managing high cholesterol if you have is one way. However, Dr. Patrick Kee, MD, Ph.D., a cardiologist with Vital Heart & Vein in Houston, explains that lifestyle tweaks like diet are crucial, whether you benefit from medication for cholesterol or not. The good news?"Even minor adjustments to your diet can lead to significant clinical benefits if maintained over time, emphasizing the profound impact of self-care in managing high cholesterol and reducing the risk of future heart attacks and strokes," Dr. Kee various factors can complicate even making small changes to your diet, and you may unintentionally be consuming some heart-unfriendly foods. Cardiologists share the one habit to break if you have high cholesterol.🩺 💊 The No. 1 Habit Cardiologists Want People With High Cholesterol To Break ASAP Cardiologists are urging people with high cholesterol to not overlook saturated fat consumption. "We see a significant increase in heart disease risk with high consumption of saturated fats," warns Dr. Bradley Serwer, MD, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health research suggests that saturated fat is more likely to affect cholesterol levels than dietary cholesterol, although this can vary from person to person. Not all fats are bad—monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that remain liquid at room temperature can have heart-healthy benefits. However, saturated fats, which solidify at room temperature, can pose risks, including higher odds of developing high cholesterol or having complications if you already do. "Saturated fat, typically found in animal products like red meats and full-fat dairy, influences your liver to produce higher levels of LDL—'bad'—cholesterol in your blood," explains , a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology in NYC and contributor. "LDL cholesterol circulates in your blood and can stick to artery walls, forming plaque. Over time, this plaque narrows arteries—a condition called atherosclerosis—and increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes."For this reason, Dr. Suri notes that the American Heart Association recommends limiting your saturated fat consumption to less than 6% of your daily calories."This roughly translates to about 13 grams of saturated fat per day, if someone is consuming 2,000 calories per day," she notes. Related: Why It's Hard To Monitor Saturated Fat—Even With High Cholesterol Limiting saturated fat intake is difficult, even if you've gotten doctor's orders to do so for high cholesterol, concedes Dr. Jeffrey Carstens, MD, MBA, a cardiologist with UnityPoint Health."Controlling saturated fat intake is challenging for many individuals due to its prevalence in a wide array of appealing foods, including many fast-food options, often without obvious labeling," he says. "Frequently unrecognized sources include processed foods, such as ice cream and baked goods."The labels on the front of a food container don't always help you make the best decisions for your cholesterol. "Food labels can be misleading," Dr. Kee reports. "A 'reduced-fat' food might still be high in saturated fat or might contain higher amounts of sugar or sodium, which can confuse consumers trying to make healthier choices." Dr. Kee adds that the current hyperfocus on macronutrients—especially protein—can also lead people to reach for foods high in saturated fat. For instance, red meat is an "excellent" source of protein and saturated fat. Also? We're human. "Lifestyle factors like time constraints often lead individuals to opt for convenience foods, which are typically high in saturated fat, added sugars and sodium," he How To Eat Less Saturated Fat It's hard to reduce your saturated fat intake. However, cardiologists emphasize that it's not impossible and is worth doing if you have high cholesterol or want to prevent it. "Reducing saturated fat intake is one of the most effective ways to protect heart health—and it doesn't have to mean giving up on flavor," Dr. Suri how to eat less saturated fat: 1. Prioritize fruits, vegetables and whole grains Deprivation is not on the menu when you're trying to manage cholesterol. Dr. Carstens recommends fiber-rich foods. Think apples, leafy greens and quinoa. "Loading up on these naturally low-fat and high-fiber foods helps displace higher-fat options in your diet and promotes fullness," he time you serve yourself a meal, take a look at your plate. Dr. Kee recommends loading half of it with vegetables. 2. Opt for leaner or plant-based protein Protein is an essential macronutrient, but Dr. Carstens says that choosing leaner cuts or plant-based options can help you cut back on saturated fat intake. Think skinless chicken, fish and legumes. If your cravings call for red meat, opt for a leaner cut. Dr. Kee is a fan of Meatless Monday, though any day to go full-on vegetarian works."Aim for at least one meatless meal per week to explore new protein options," he recommends. 3. Replace saturated fats Remember, "fat" isn't a dirty word, even when you're trying to reduce your cholesterol. The type of fat you regularly use to drizzle on salads or cook with can make a significant difference in your heart health. "Replace saturated fats with healthier options," Dr. Serwer advises. "Some excellent options include olive oil or avocado oil instead of butter or coconut oil." 4. Become a label detective When perusing the grocery store, be sure to look at the back of the food bag or canister, which paints a clearer picture of whether it's heart-friendly. "Many packaged and processed foods contain hidden saturated fats, even ones labeled healthy," Dr. Suri cardiologists emphasize that it's not impossible, and is worth doing if you have high cholesterol or want to prevent it. "A simple guideline is to choose foods with no more than 1 gram of saturated fat per 100 calories," Dr. Kee notes. "However, be mindful that 'reduced-fat' products might compensate with higher sugar or sodium content." 5. Limit eating out Many chain menus post nutrition information, and it's worth taking the time to read. However, Dr. Serwer says opting for home-cooked meals more often than not is a best practice for your heart health (and wallet, if we're being honest). "The best way to reduce saturated fats is to know what you are eating," he says. "Try your best to avoid eating at restaurants where ingredients are unknown." Up Next:Sources: Heart and Stroke Statistics. American Heart Association. Dr. Patrick Kee, MD, Ph.D., a cardiologist with Vital Heart & Vein in Houston Dr. Bradley Serwer, MD, an interventional cardiologist and chief medical officer at VitalSolution, an Ingenovis Health company Dietary saturated fat and cholesterol: cracking the myths around eggs and cardiovascular disease. Journal of Nutritional Science. The Skinny on Fats. American Heart Association. Dr. Bhavna Suri, MD, a cardiologist with Manhattan Cardiology in NYC and contributor Saturated Fats. American Heart Association. Dr. Jeffrey Carstens, MD, MBA, a cardiologist with UnityPoint Health Cardiologists Are Begging People With High Cholesterol To Stop Doing This One Thing ASAP first appeared on Parade on Jul 21, 2025 This story was originally reported by Parade on Jul 21, 2025, where it first appeared.
