We live in an era of abundance, where food is no longer merely a means to satisfy hunger. Instead, it has become a form of entertainment, as enjoying good food is widely known as one of the best ways to spend time with friends. Food also serves as a source of comfort, boredom relief, or even self-reward.
However, this lifestyle has consequences. Today, cardiovascular diseases have become the number one cause of death worldwide, accounting for 30% of all fatalities. It is crucial to understand that many of these premature deaths could have been prevented with a healthier lifestyle.
You’ve probably heard of bad cholesterol, also known as LDL. It is one of the major risk factors for heart disease, contributing to fat deposits in the arteries, reducing or even blocking the blood and oxygen supply to the heart.
The latest European guidelines on dyslipidemia treatment include a dedicated section with recommendations on how lifestyle changes can help reduce and lower LDL cholesterol levels. Naturally, diet and body weight play a significant role. However, it’s essential to note that high LDL cholesterol levels can occur even in individuals with a normal weight. Below are four key recommendations from these guidelines.
Reduce Trans and Saturated Fats in Your Diet
The first recommendation is to reduce the intake of trans fats and saturated fats. Products that contain oils but are solid or labeled as partially hydrogenated vegetable oils may contain trans fats. These can be found in various baked goods, sweets, fast food, processed foods, sauces, and even margarine. The daily intake of trans fats should not exceed one gram.
Saturated fats are primarily found in visible and hidden animal fats, such as those in sausages, hot dogs, bacon, as well as fatty dairy products like cream, whipping cream, fatty cheeses, and butter. Many pastries also contain high amounts of these fats, which are among the main contributors to weight gain.
Increase Fiber Intake
The second recommendation is to significantly increase fiber intake. There are two types of fiber—soluble and insoluble. Both have been linked to improved heart health. Fiber can be found in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, and nuts.
Fiber plays a crucial role in preventing heart disease by helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Additionally, fiber contributes to a feeling of fullness, which helps control cravings and aids in weight management.
Be More Physically Active
The third recommendation is to increase physical activity. Simply engaging in brisk movement for at least 30 minutes a day is enough to benefit heart health and support healthy weight management.
Support Your Body with Red Yeast Rice Supplements If Needed
For those looking for additional support, dietary supplements can be beneficial. Zovacor Forte is a specialized supplement designed to support heart and vascular health. It contains Chinese red yeast rice, red onion, and olive leaf extracts. Zovacor Forte includes a standardized extract of Chinese fermented red yeast rice (Monascus Purpureus), which is naturally fermented and highly purified, being citrinin-free. The key active ingredient in red yeast rice extract is monacolin K. Red onion (Allium Cepa) supports circulation in small blood vessels and helps maintain normal blood lipid levels, including cholesterol and triglycerides. Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is crucial, as excess cholesterol can lead to narrowed blood vessels and vascular health issues.
Unfortunately, we live in a world where more people die from overeating than from hunger—three times as many, in fact. However, by following the professional lifestyle recommendations outlined in the guidelines, we can live long and fulfilling lives.
Take care of your heart, and your heart will take care of you!
