Chinese New Year is a time of celebration and delicious feasts, but with all the tempting dishes, it’s important to be mindful of your cholesterol levels. Indulging in high-fat foods can lead to increased cholesterol, which poses risks to your health, including heart problems and strokes. However, there are simple tips to help you enjoy a big meal with your family during this festive occasion without worrying about cholesterol.
Limit Portions of High-Fat Dishes
Consuming excessive amounts of high-fat foods is not ideal for your health, especially during festive gatherings. To mitigate this risk, consider using smaller plates to limit your portions of high-fat dishes. Research has shown that using smaller plates can reduce the amount of food consumed by an individual. This can help prevent a spike in cholesterol levels and maintain your overall health.
Choose Wisely to Keep Cholesterol in Check
Not all Chinese New Year dishes are high in cholesterol. Opt for healthier options such as steamed fish rich in omega-3, Yu Sheng salad with fresh vegetables, or tofu stew packed with protein. Making smart choices when selecting your meals can help you enjoy the festivities without compromising your health.
Eating late into the night during Chinese New Year celebrations can make it challenging for your body to digest fatty foods. To avoid this issue, try to have your main meal earlier in the evening and limit heavy foods close to bedtime. This can aid in digestion and prevent potential health risks associated with late-night eating.
Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when indulging in various delectable dishes during the festive season. Aim to drink around 8 glasses or approximately 2 liters of water daily to keep your body hydrated. Additionally, studies have shown that individuals who drink water before meals tend to consume smaller portions and are less likely to opt for high-cholesterol foods.
Incorporating fiber, particularly soluble fiber, into your diet can help lower bad cholesterol levels in your body. Fiber forms a gel-like substance in the intestines that traps cholesterol, preventing it from being reabsorbed into the bloodstream. Including foods high in soluble fiber, such as red beans, whole grains, berries, apples, pears, and soybeans, can aid in cholesterol control.
Furthermore, consuming plant stanol ester (PSE) can block the absorption of cholesterol in the digestive system. PSE has a molecular structure similar to cholesterol, allowing it to replace cholesterol molecules in the body, leading to the excretion of cholesterol from the body. Nutrive Benecol, a beverage containing natural plant stanol ester, has been clinically proven to reduce total cholesterol levels by 7-10% after consuming 2 bottles daily following meals for 2 weeks.
Nutrive Benecol smoothies, available in flavors like blackcurrant, lychee, strawberry, and orange, offer a convenient and delicious way to lower cholesterol levels. Whether you have high cholesterol or want to prevent it, Nutrive Benecol is a safe option made from natural ingredients. Its benefits of binding dietary cholesterol make it suitable as a post-meal treat or palate cleanser during family gatherings.
In conclusion, with Nutrive Benecol, you can enjoy tasty meals with your loved ones during Chinese New Year without fretting about high cholesterol levels. So, savor the moments and cherish the flavors while taking care of your health.
By Nurfina Fitri Melina | Edited by Anniza Kemala
