Reducing SATs And Cholesterol – Nothing New Under The Sun

For years, the subject of reducing one's level of cholesterol in the blood stream by eating less saturated fats (SATS) has been an important topic concerning better health and nutrition. Saturated fat, derived from eating foods high in cholesterol content such as animal fats derived from red meat and dairy products, has been known to a major cause of cardio-vascular disease, mainly caused by the build up of plaque or fat residues in the arteries leading to the heart as well as in the heart itself.

The accumulation of cholesterol in the blood stream varies from person to person, and is usually connection to a person's body metabolism (the ability of the body to burn off excess energy derived from fats). The rate of heart disease and resulting serious coronary attacks also differs from country to country; with the greater risk being in countries where more foods containing SATs are consumed. Some of these countries include the USA (one of the greater risk countries) the U.K., Western and Eastern Europe, and Russia.

Due to an individual's body metabolism, what may be a "normal" amount of cholesterol may vary; and what is considered low for one person may actually be high for others. The subject of reducing one's cholesterol by watching what foods are consumed is not a new one, despite the more recent interest in the subject. One of the earlier 'pioneers' in the study of reducing heart problems by eating less SATs was Dr. Victor H. Lindlahr who wrote several books on diet and healthier eating during a period from the mid-1930's to the 1960's. He was also a radio and television commentator of the subject of healthier eating. Dr. Lindlahr's book, Heart Saving Eating, published in 1959 was perhaps his most talked about work dealing with reducing SAT's and other calorie loaded foods in the average American diet. Even in his day, the importance of reducing the amount of saturated fats, and increasing intake of poly-unsaturated fats (olive and fish oil, for example) was already becoming well known.

Dr. Lindlahr and countless others have all reached the same conclusion: that change of diet, including a sharp reduction in saturated fats, combined with moderate exercise greatly reduces the risk of heart attacks – especially in people over age 40. It has also been found that certain foods and medicines are greatly beneficial in reducing the amount of cholesterol in the blood. These foods include fish, red wine (or grape juice), whole grains and green vegetables, and aspirin. Studies are finding that drinking a glass or two of red wine is very beneficial to reducing blood cholesterol levels. Certain teas, particularly green tea and ginseng are also very beneficial. Those who smoke cigarettes should make every effort to stop smoking if they want to reduce both the risks of lung cancer as well as cardio-vascular disease.

All in all, by avoiding saturated fats, exercising regularly, and eating a more healthy diet, will be very beneficial in reducing blood cholesterol levels and with it the risks of heart disease.