Myths about Cholesterol: The incidence of death due to heart disease is increasing. Especially in India, cases of heart attack or cardiac arrest are coming to the fore while traveling. Rush-filled lifestyles and bad eating habits are also being held responsible for this. However, in order to be careful about eating and drinking, many times people start following some things which in the eyes of health experts are nothing more than misconceptions or myths. People have many misconceptions, especially regarding the increase in bed cholesterol.
Dr. Varun Bansal, Consultant of Cardiology and Cardio Thoracic Surgery, at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, says that there are many myths prevalent in society regarding a healthy diet for the heart. Even people follow these in their daily lives and do not hesitate to give advice to each other. Whereas from a scientific point of view, people do not have correct information about healthy diet.
What are these myths and their truth
Myth.1. All fats are dangerous for the heart
It is generally believed that all types of fat are harmful to the heart. Which includes oil, ghee, vegetable oil, fish, etc. Dr. Bansal says that the truth is that not all types of fats have a bad effect on the heart. It is important to recognize this. Only fried and processed foods like trans fat or saturated fat are harmful. Whereas avocado, nuts and dry fruits, olive oil, fish, walnuts, flaxseeds, etc. reduce unsaturated fat and bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol in the body. Sometimes consuming less fat can also cause harm to you. Therefore, instead of a fat-free diet, take a diet with good fats.
Myth.2. Cholesterol increases with eggs
The second myth is that consuming dietary cholesterol increases blood cholesterol. It is said that eating cholesterol-rich foods like eggs increases blood cholesterol, whereas research says that eggs are a storehouse of protein and nutrients. If it is eaten in small quantities, it becomes a healthy food for the heart.
Myth.3. Fruits and grains can increase sugar
People think that all carbohydrates are equal and increase sugar, which increases the risk of heart disease. However, this is not correct. Sweet snacks and processed foods increase glucose in the blood, but whole grains, fruits, and vegetables which are high in fiber are very useful for the heart and are heart-protecting.
Myth. 4. Health supplements are better than diet
Dr. Bansal says that the fourth myth is that it is better to take health supplements by reducing diet. However, it is not like that. If you take a healthy diet. If it contains a sufficient amount of fiber, protein, vitamins, fat or carbohydrates, then there is no need to take supplements. Yes, some supplements can be taken for Omega Three Fatty Acids or Vitamin D3 but it is not a substitute for a healthy diet. Your daily food should be balanced and healthy.