Keeping cholesterol at healthy levels is crucial for cardiovascular health. Generally speaking, there are two main types of cholesterol: LDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as ‘bad’ cholesterol, because an increase in its levels in the blood is more related to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases; and HDL cholesterol, commonly referred to as ‘good’ cholesterol, because an increase in its levels in the blood is not related to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

In addition to a balanced diet and regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and not smoking are other important lifestyle factors that can contribute to better control of this indicator.

And when it comes to a balanced diet, of course choosing the right snacks can play an important role. In this article, we explore some healthy snack options that can be favourable for maintaining more controlled cholesterol levels.

1. Nuts and seeds: Walnuts, almonds, cashews and seeds such as chia and linseed are good foods for those who need to control their cholesterol. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fibre, they can help reduce LDL cholesterol and increase HDL.
2. Oats and Wholegrain Cereals: Wholegrain cereals, particularly oats, contain fibre which helps to reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the blood, as well as maintaining higher levels of satiety, important for more effective weight control.
3. Fruit: Apples, pears, dates and citrus fruits are rich in fibre which helps control high cholesterol. In addition to natural fruit (the ideal form), fruit-based snacks can be good allies in this context.
4. Legumes: beans, peas, soya beans are good sources of fibre and vegetable protein, which is important for replacing animal protein sources which, due to their saturated fat content, tend to increase LDL cholesterol.

Top 10 snacks to help control cholesterol

- Salty Fusion natural vibes

- Salty Fusion Beans and Olive

- Nuts Raw Mix

- Protein balls with almond cream

- Fruit balls raspberry

- Fruit Bar pineapple nuts

- Piña Colada Sweet Fusion

- Raw Bar crunchy almond

- dark cocoa sandwich cookies with cocoa filling

- Bio Biscuits Lemon and Chia

 

Conclusion

Consuming the right snacks throughout the day can contribute positively to better control of cholesterol values, when framed within a balanced eating day.

With Oh! My Snacks, you can leave this to our team of nutritionists and rest assured that your snack choices will be the right ones to help you with your health conditions.

 

Author:

Rita Lima (CP.3003N)