Cholesterol and Habits

• Check the menu!
  
  Cholesterol is the most common steroid in the human body and critical in health. Busier schedules seem to make eating healthy harder and creates bad habits. Eating foods high in cholesterol doesn't have to be an option. Whether preparing a quick meal at home, or grabbing a bite on the go, there are various choices available, just by checking the labels of food before purchase, or a menu before ordering.
  
  

Shopping for Home

• Read food labels carefully
  
  Always make sure to read labels when buying food. Most manufacturers provide low fat, low cholesterol foods if you don't have the time to prepare a meal. When reading labels, be sure to look for low saturated fat and little or no partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, also known as trans fat. Avoid foods high in saturated fat and trans fat. Unsaturated fats lower cholesterol levels, while saturated fats raise cholesterol levels. Avoid red meats, especially meats trimmed in fat. Lean protein meats such as chicken, turkey and salmon are better choices. Avoid white flour foods, and choose whole grain foods instead. Choose low fat or skim dairy products and avoid regular ones full of fat.
  
  

Healthy Choices Dining Out

• Choose grilled chicken over red meats
  
  Know what foods to avoid when dining out. Fried, crispy, stuffed, or sauteed foods are high in calories and in fat. Choose baked, grilled, roasted or poached foods. Avoid foods cooked in saturated oils, and see if vegetable oil is offered instead. Avoid butter for breads; go with margarine. Avoid high sodium cooked foods. Most house dressings, sauces and gravy are high in fat, sodium and calories. Request they be served on the side, rather than poured directly on the food. Dessert is tempting, but keep away from high-fat pastries or ice creams.