Popcorn cholesterol: Different types of low cholesterol snacks and snacking tips
Different types of low cholesterol snacks and snacking tips
Cholesterol is an important molecule involved in bodily functions, from vitamin absorption to structuring cell membranes. However, an imbalance between “good” and “bad” kinds of cholesterol may lead to negative health effects.
For this reason, a person may benefit from cutting down on processed sugary or fried foods. These types of food may cause elevations in cholesterol levels.
A wide range of fruits, vegetables, starchy foods, and proteins can act as good substitutes. Dairy and dairy alternatives may also help improve a person’s cholesterol levels.
This article discusses some foods that have a positive impact on cholesterol. It also outlines healthy snacking tips and answers common questions about low cholesterol snacks.
For more science-backed resources on nutrition, visit our dedicated hub.
Was this helpful?
Scientists define cholesterol as a fatty molecule that plays several important bodily roles.
There are two types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. People may refer to LDL cholesterol as “bad” cholesterol and HDL cholesterol as “good” cholesterol.
If a person has too much LDL, they may be at risk of developing certain health conditions.
There is evidence that diets high in fruits and vegetables positively impact cardiovascular health. For instance, a 2018 study on 16–17-year-olds found that those who ate more greens and beans were less likely to have high LDL and total cholesterol levels.
People may increase their fruit and vegetable intake by eating them as snacks or incorporating them into small, snack-like meals.
People may be able to lower their cholesterol by replacing foods high in saturated fats with fruit and vegetable products high in unsaturated fats, including:
- vegetable oils
- seeds
- nuts
- avocados
Some types of fiber stop the intestines from absorbing too much cholesterol.
Many fruits and vegetables are high in fiber, such as:
- beans
- peas
- lentils
- eggplant or aubergine
- okra
- broccoli
- apples
- strawberries
- prunes
According to a 2020 study, replacing certain dietary sugars such as fructose or sucrose with starch may reduce LDL cholesterol levels. Therefore, a person may better maintain healthy cholesterol levels by replacing sugary snacks with starchy foods.
Some nutrient-rich starchy foods include:
- sweet potato
- potato
- yam
- cassava
- plantain
It is important to distinguish between how much cholesterol food has and its effect on bodily cholesterol. According to a 2019 study in Korea, this issue is relevant to the status of animal proteins as low cholesterol foods since animal proteins often have lots of cholesterol.
The authors of this study suggest that only certain processed meats may increase total and LDL cholesterol levels.
The study did not find similar effects in people who ate eggs or unprocessed meats. However, the authors also note the need for further conclusive research into this topic on larger populations.
A better source of low cholesterol protein may come from soy products. Research suggests that soy protein may help lower LDL cholesterol levels.
Heart UK recommends the following soy foods as good sources of low cholesterol proteins:
- edamame or young soybeans
- tofu
- soy mince or meatballs
Learn more about low cholesterol meats and meat alternatives.
Dairy products can contain a significant amount of saturated fat, which may raise a person’s cholesterol levels. However, this depends on the product type and whether it is full or low fat. Therefore, a person should consider speaking with a doctor about consuming dairy products in moderation to help lower cholesterol.
Some fermented dairy products may help lower LDL cholesterol levels. These include:
- some types of cheese
- yogurt
- kefir
Non-fermented dairy products such as cow’s milk are not likely to lower LDL cholesterol levels.
However, some dairy-free alternatives may help.
Heart UK recommends soy milk and soy yogurt as alternatives to dairy-based snacks.
Maintaining a balanced diet is the key method for sustaining healthy cholesterol levels. A person may follow these tips to help develop a balanced low cholesterol diet:
- practicing conscious or mindful eating
- keeping a good stock of healthy snacks
- trying new and healthy recipes
Research also suggests that avoiding trans and saturated fats is important for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about low cholesterol snacks.
Is popcorn low in cholesterol?
Popcorn without added sugar or salt may have low levels of cholesterol. However, popcorn can have high levels of cholesterol if people prepare it with butter or a sugary coating, such as caramel.
Are pretzels low in cholesterol?
This depends on the type of pretzel. Hard and soft pretzels may contain different ingredients, but many contain refined carbohydrates.
A healthier option may be pretzels containing whole grains. A person can check the nutrition label on the product to determine its cholesterol content.
What cheese has low cholesterol?
There is limited research into which cheeses are best for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. However, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) recommends people try to eat fewer hard cheeses, such as cheddar.
A person may find it difficult to balance their intake of “good” and “bad” cholesterol. However, a range of snack options may help reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.
People should speak with a healthcare professional if they are concerned about their cholesterol intake. A doctor or dietitian can help create meal plans and advise a person about other lifestyle modifications to lower cholesterol levels.
Different types of low cholesterol snacks and snacking tips
Cholesterol is an important molecule involved in bodily functions, from vitamin absorption to structuring cell membranes.
However, an imbalance between “good” and “bad” kinds of cholesterol may lead to negative health effects.
For this reason, a person may benefit from cutting down on processed sugary or fried foods. These types of food may cause elevations in cholesterol levels.
A wide range of fruits, vegetables, starchy foods, and proteins can act as good substitutes. Dairy and dairy alternatives may also help improve a person’s cholesterol levels.
This article discusses some foods that have a positive impact on cholesterol. It also outlines healthy snacking tips and answers common questions about low cholesterol snacks.
For more science-backed resources on nutrition, visit our dedicated hub.
Was this helpful?
Scientists define cholesterol as a fatty molecule that plays several important bodily roles.
There are two types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. People may refer to LDL cholesterol as “bad” cholesterol and HDL cholesterol as “good” cholesterol.
If a person has too much LDL, they may be at risk of developing certain health conditions.
There is evidence that diets high in fruits and vegetables positively impact cardiovascular health. For instance, a 2018 study on 16–17-year-olds found that those who ate more greens and beans were less likely to have high LDL and total cholesterol levels.
People may increase their fruit and vegetable intake by eating them as snacks or incorporating them into small, snack-like meals.
People may be able to lower their cholesterol by replacing foods high in saturated fats with fruit and vegetable products high in unsaturated fats, including:
- vegetable oils
- seeds
- nuts
- avocados
Some types of fiber stop the intestines from absorbing too much cholesterol. Many fruits and vegetables are high in fiber, such as:
- beans
- peas
- lentils
- eggplant or aubergine
- okra
- broccoli
- apples
- strawberries
- prunes
According to a 2020 study, replacing certain dietary sugars such as fructose or sucrose with starch may reduce LDL cholesterol levels.
Therefore, a person may better maintain healthy cholesterol levels by replacing sugary snacks with starchy foods.
Some nutrient-rich starchy foods include:
- sweet potato
- potato
- yam
- cassava
- plantain
It is important to distinguish between how much cholesterol food has and its effect on bodily cholesterol. According to a 2019 study in Korea, this issue is relevant to the status of animal proteins as low cholesterol foods since animal proteins often have lots of cholesterol.
The authors of this study suggest that only certain processed meats may increase total and LDL cholesterol levels. The study did not find similar effects in people who ate eggs or unprocessed meats. However, the authors also note the need for further conclusive research into this topic on larger populations.
A better source of low cholesterol protein may come from soy products. Research suggests that soy protein may help lower LDL cholesterol levels.
Heart UK recommends the following soy foods as good sources of low cholesterol proteins:
- edamame or young soybeans
- tofu
- soy mince or meatballs
Learn more about low cholesterol meats and meat alternatives.
Dairy products can contain a significant amount of saturated fat, which may raise a person’s cholesterol levels. However, this depends on the product type and whether it is full or low fat. Therefore, a person should consider speaking with a doctor about consuming dairy products in moderation to help lower cholesterol.
Some fermented dairy products may help lower LDL cholesterol levels. These include:
- some types of cheese
- yogurt
- kefir
Non-fermented dairy products such as cow’s milk are not likely to lower LDL cholesterol levels. However, some dairy-free alternatives may help.
Heart UK recommends soy milk and soy yogurt as alternatives to dairy-based snacks.
Maintaining a balanced diet is the key method for sustaining healthy cholesterol levels.
A person may follow these tips to help develop a balanced low cholesterol diet:
- practicing conscious or mindful eating
- keeping a good stock of healthy snacks
- trying new and healthy recipes
Research also suggests that avoiding trans and saturated fats is important for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about low cholesterol snacks.
Is popcorn low in cholesterol?
Popcorn without added sugar or salt may have low levels of cholesterol. However, popcorn can have high levels of cholesterol if people prepare it with butter or a sugary coating, such as caramel.
Are pretzels low in cholesterol?
This depends on the type of pretzel. Hard and soft pretzels may contain different ingredients, but many contain refined carbohydrates. A healthier option may be pretzels containing whole grains. A person can check the nutrition label on the product to determine its cholesterol content.
What cheese has low cholesterol?
There is limited research into which cheeses are best for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. However, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS) recommends people try to eat fewer hard cheeses, such as cheddar.
A person may find it difficult to balance their intake of “good” and “bad” cholesterol. However, a range of snack options may help reduce low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels.
People should speak with a healthcare professional if they are concerned about their cholesterol intake. A doctor or dietitian can help create meal plans and advise a person about other lifestyle modifications to lower cholesterol levels.
Sprats, popcorn and 6 more snacks that lower cholesterol
- Health
Nutritionists named foods that will save us from hunger between meals and at the same time benefit the body.
October 6, 202115
- Source:
- unsplash.com
Chips and crackers are not our way to fight hunger! The effect of saturation does not last long, and even a crushing blow to the body. It is better to choose snack options that will benefit us, for example, help lower cholesterol levels, and at the same time will be really tasty.
This list does not include oatmeal in all its possible forms. Although, it is fair to say that this is one of the best “fighters” with low-density lipoprotein (LDL) – bad cholesterol. Due to the high fiber content, oatmeal famously removes cholesterol from our body. Moreover, not only traditional porridge is suitable for this, but also breakfast cereals. A Harvard study of 40,000 physicians found that a diet high in fiber reduced the risk of coronary heart disease by 40 percent. You need to get about 5-10 grams of fiber per day to lower your LDL by 11 points. And so, where, in addition to oatmeal, useful fiber is “found”.
See also
Popcorn
A serving of popcorn contains about 4 grams of dietary fiber, a cholesterol-lowering fiber. Clara Lawson, a nutritionist, has recommended a way to make popcorn that is lower in calories and healthier. Swap the butter for olive oil and add some parmesan cheese for flavor.
Sprats
Not exactly a traditional snack, but it can be heart-healthy thanks to its omega-3 fatty acid content. They help lower triglyceride levels. If it is elevated, then it threatens the development of coronary heart disease. By the way, nutritionists do not recommend getting involved in sprats. It is enough to eat about 50 grams of the product to bring benefits to your body, not harm. Sprats, by the way, can be replaced with canned salmon or sardines.
See also
Pistachios and apples
Nutritionist Michel Rutenstein says this is almost perfect. Apples contain soluble fiber, which lowers cholesterol levels, while fresh pistachios contain phytosterol, which increases the level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) – good cholesterol.
Homemade chips
Store-bought chips are out of the question, probably, this is one of the most unhealthy snacks. But if you make the chips yourself, then they will benefit you in the fight against bad cholesterol. And all because the potato is rich in fiber, potassium and contains few calories. All of these help keep the heart healthy. How to make chips? Thinly slice raw potatoes, you can do this, for example, using a vegetable peeler. Arrange the slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil and bake. You can add natural seasonings to taste, everything except salt.
See also
Sprouted Grain Bread
It is rich in nutrients and contains a lot of fibre. Such bread can be baked at home or purchased in stores. There are many recipes, for example, with the addition of legumes. Toasting a piece of sprouted bread in the toaster, brushing it with almond butter, or drizzling a few drops of olive oil on it makes for a healthy toast that’s high in fiber and healthy fats.
They normalize cholesterol levels.
Oat bars
It is worth choosing those bars that contain a minimum of sugar.
“These are a great source of fiber and are easier to take with you than regular oatmeal,” nutritionist Lisa Richards was quoted as saying by EatThis.
Read also
Edamame
Literally from Japanese, edamame translates as “bean on a stalk.” Usually soybeans in the pod are harvested unripe and boiled in salted water. In Japan, it is a very popular snack. You can replace soybeans with green beans in pods, which are sold frozen in many stores.
Salsa with beans
All legumes contain a lot of fiber. They can be made even more healthy and tasty by simply preparing salsa – a kind of salad. You will need any boiled beans, cherry tomatoes, green peppers, pickled bell peppers and seasonings to taste. Mix everything and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice. So you will not only lower your cholesterol levels, but also nourish your body with vitamins.
Text author:Alena Bezmenova
Named three simple snacks to lower cholesterol
Society
24115
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High blood cholesterol can cause serious vascular and heart disease. However, not everyone manages to adhere to a complete diet in order to achieve lower cholesterol.
In this case, experts advise adding three healthy snacks to the diet that will help normalize its level.
What kind of snacks should be eaten to lower cholesterol, according to the Daily Express, citing specialists from Heart UK. As an alternative to chips, experts recommend unsalted popcorn. According to experts, it is a rich source of fiber, which helps slow down the absorption of carbohydrates and fat and prolongs the feeling of satiety.
In addition, experts say that popcorn can be made at home, using hot spices or cinnamon to add flavor. However, experts advise avoiding large portions of popcorn, otherwise excess fiber can lead to an unnecessary burden on digestion and provoke health problems.
In addition, experts recommend eating rice or oatmeal. It is noted that many people prefer to snack on sweet buns or cookies with tea, but these are not the best foods in terms of cholesterol. And in oatmeal and rice bread, according to experts, there are very few calories and almost no fat.