6-minute read
Health usually isn’t the most understood topic. A lot of people have formed ideas and beliefs about the world of health through old misinformation and stories passed down through the generations. In the last few decades, we have even seen major campaigns demonizing food that has been eaten by people for as long as humans have recorded events in history. To dispel some of these beliefs, this blog has been written to discuss a few of the myths about the causes of high cholesterol that society’s money-makers want us to believe. So, Champion, get the facts and know what the truth is about whatever the issue is you are focusing on to create your new NOW.
Say No to Eggs
In the 1980s, there were major ad campaigns aimed at discouraging people from eating eggs. This is because, at the time, people understood that eggs contained a high amount of dietary cholesterol, and the amount that they contained made up two-thirds of what nutrition experts were saying a person should intake at one time. As time has gone on, and more research studies have been published, it became clear that the cholesterol contained in eggs was much different than the cholesterol that we find in our blood. Eggs contain a large portion of the good fats that people need. Enjoy eggs!
High Cholesterol Only Affects Adults
Over the last 20 years, childhood obesity rates have increased by a more than unfavorable amount. Societal and community factors matter, too.
A good portion of people have believed in the bogus claim that children aren’t susceptible to high cholesterol or heart disease, but studies have proven that this is false. When children eat diets that are high in saturated fats and low in soluble fibers and HDL cholesterol, the body can begin to decline in health and experience arterial blockages just as easily as many adults.
If you are inclined, here is a link to an interview with Diane Schazxenbach, director of the Institute for Policy Research at Northwestern University, about new research she and colleagues published using various federal data sets to examine some of the long-term trends in obesity rates. https://stateofchildhoodobesity.org
The key to prevention is a solid diet of unsaturated fats with lots of HDL-producing foods. Having a balanced meal during younger years can also have a life-changing effect on later health.
This www.cdc.gov article About Healthy Food Environments discusses issues, concerns, and healthy food options to bring about change. https://search.cdc.gov/search/?query=child%20obesity&dpage=1
It’s Healthy If It Says No Cholesterol
One thing that food companies have been bad at, is labeling what type of fat or cholesterol that they are talking about when they make these claims on the front of their packaging. Generally speaking, when a package says, “No cholesterol“ they are talking about dietary cholesterol, which has far less to do with high cholesterol. A more accurate indication would be the number of trans fats or saturated fats found in packaged foods.
You should always talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your cholesterol so that they can guide you toward what to do or not do.
Wise research will guide you. Just begin with small choices that bring about smart change. Make the promise to create a new NOW for yourself and those you love.