A diet high in animal fats and cholesterol strongly increases the risk of heart disease. Cholesterol from animal fats containing L.D.L., or low density lipoprotein (LIP-oh-pro-teen) particles, is considered 'bad' cholesterol. The L.D.L. particles build up over time and clog the arteries leading to the heart. Saturated fats, which are oils from animal products and some plants, such as coconut and palm oil, raise blood cholesterol levels. Examples of saturated fats are meat fat, butter, cream, and shortening. A diet low in saturated fats is lower in cholesterol because the amount of cholesterol in your blood is influenced by the amount and kinds of fats you consume. A blood cholesterol level over two hundred is considered risky. To begin lowering blood cholesterol levels, substitute polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, such as sunflower, corn, olive, and peanut oil in your cooking. These fats, in moderation, lower blood cholesterol and help remove cholesterol from the body. For more information on cholesterol, contact a health care professional .
