High cholesterol: Nutritionist reveals top prevention tips
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Christmas is a time when most people treat themselves a little more than they usually would. However, for people at risk of high cholesterol or those already diagnosed with the condition, too many treats could pose a risk to their health.
Luckily, there are some easy food swaps you can make this festive season to reduce your risk of high cholesterol.
Here are four “healthier” Christmas swaps to make this December
Swap crisps for nuts
Crisps are often high in saturated fat and salt which can be detrimental for people with high cholesterol.
When checking the nutritional information of a bag of crisps, it is important you look out for saturated fat.
According to the British Heart Foundation (BHF), crisps cooked in unsaturated fat are a “better option”.
However, an even better option is to swap your bag of crisps for a handful of plain nuts.
Be sure to double-check the contents of your nuts though, as some seasoned or salted nuts can be equally as bad as crisps.
The BHF adds: “Unsalted nuts are high in calories, so portion control is needed, but they contain protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals, making them a nutritious choice.”
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Swap pigs in blankets for grilled chicken skewers
Pigs in blankets are a seasonal favourite, but if you think they might crop up more than once throughout December, it is worth considering swapping them for healthier meats on occasion.
This is because processed meats, such as sausages or bacon, are often high in saturated fat and can lot of added salt.
Instead, the BHF advises looking out for unprocessed meat options.
They add: “Grilled or cold roast chicken or turkey, hard-boiled eggs or dips made with beans or pulses, such as hummus, are all healthier protein options.”
Swap cheese straws for breadsticks
Cheese straws are a traditional addition to the Christmas buffet but, while lovely, they can be high in fat and salt.
The ingredients make cheese straws a calorie-dense option.
In the case of some brands, just one cheese straw contains a third of your daily limit for saturated fat.
The BHF states: “Instead of cheesy snacks, opt for breadsticks, which are lower in saturated fat.
“If you’re having a festive gathering, prepare some vegetable crudités and hummus in case people would like a healthy option.”
Swap brandy butter for half-fat créme fraiche
Brandy butter is often smothered on Christmas deserts, but it comes with added fat, sugar and plenty of calories.
While brandy butter is fine for an occasional treat, over the festive season the BHF recommend looking for a somewhat healthier addition to your dessert.
They state: “If the choice of accompaniments for your mince pie or Christmas pudding is cream or brandy butter then, unless it’s Christmas Day, consider having neither as they will pack a punch of saturated fat and calories.
“If you’re at a restaurant, ask your waiter if they have some half-fat crème fraiche, custard or low-fat plain or Greek yoghurt available instead.”
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