Are you concerned about high cholesterol? Check out these GP-led hacks in leading a healthier lifestyle
Heart disease is the biggest killer in Ireland and high cholesterol contributes to this problem. Cork GP, Dr Cliona Murphy, has developed a supplement to lower cholesterol and improve heart health. Cholestero-Low is a unique blend of oat beta-glucan, inulin co-enzyme Q10 and other natural ingredients, which you can add to water or smoothies, or enjoy with yoghurt or breakfast cereal. According to Dr Cliona, these are the top five ways to lower cholesterol and have a healthier, happier heart.
Eat more fibre
Increase fibre in your diet, especially fibre from oats. Fibre helps limit the amount of cholesterol absorbed from the gut. Cholestero-Low contains amazing fibre oat beta-glucan which is approved by the European Food Safety Authority as a cholesterol-lowering supplement*. When beta glucan is consumed, it forms a gel which binds to cholesterol and bile in the intestines. This helps limit the amount of cholesterol that is absorbed from the gut into the blood.
Exercise
Pick something fun that you enjoy and look forward to attending rather than torturing yourself and eventually loosing interest. Have you tried ballroom dancing? Or maybe rope skipping is for you? Sea swimming is looking more appealing as the days get brighter. Give yourself the challenge of trying a new exercise or fitness routine for one month and you never know, it may become a new favourite hobby.
Fruit and vegetables
Get plenty of these in your daily meal plan, either fresh or frozen. Studies have shown the more fruit and vegetables in your diet, the lower your cholesterol.
Watch out for eggs
Some people are more prone to the cholesterol-raising effects of eggs than others. If you are trying to lower cholesterol and you eat eggs regularly, consider cutting down on them, or cutting out the yolk.
Alcohol
Whilst studies have shown the benefits of a glass of red wine on cardiovascular health, increased amounts of alcohol can raise your cholesterol to an unhealthy level. These days there are lots of alcohol-free options in the shops that have plenty of flavour, too.
How to enjoy Cholestero-Low
Cholestero-Low™ comes in two flavours. Add water to make a delicious strawberry or lemon flavoured drink, or combine with your favourite yoghurt or cereal. Cholestero-Low™ is on sale in pharmacies nationwide and online at cholesterolow.com.
*Oat beta-glucan has been shown to lower/reduce blood cholesterol (EU EFSA Art 14). Blood cholesterol lowering may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
