Q: My doctor says my cholesterol and triglyceride levels are high. What foods should I avoid, and what can I eat?
A: Cholesterol and triglycerides are a form of fat found in the body. Your body makes some cholesterol naturally, but high levels can lead to buildup of plaque in the arteries. Triglycerides can be high due to different reasons, such as being overweight, eating excess amounts of fat or drinking alcohol in large quantities. To ensure that your levels are in the appropriate range, your doctor might put you on medication. It is also important to maintain a healthy diet to aid in keeping your triglyceride and cholesterol level within normal limits. This includes choosing high-fiber foods such as whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables daily. Avoid high-fat dairy products such as whole milk and regular cheese, and limit animal fats such as poultry skin and highly marbled cuts of meat. Also, avoid fried foods. Choose olive oil or canola oil when cooking as opposed to butter or hydrogenated oils. Hydrogenated oils found in some margarine and commercially prepared baking products can lead to a reduction in "good" cholesterol (HDL) and elevation of "bad" cholesterol (LDL). Remember to visit your doctor regularly to monitor your progress.
-- Allison Knott, registered and licensed dietitian/nutritionist, Hamilton Medical Center, Dalton, Ga.
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