Want to ask a perfect diet for cholesterol and BP patient

Shabnam

1 year ago

Want to ask a perfect diet for cholesterol and BP patient

Food

Happy Tummy Expert

1 year ago

Dear Shabnam, Thank you for the question

Elevated blood pressure or Hypertension is common health problem, and one of the most important risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Hypertension treatment is usually based on drug administration along with lifestyle changes, especially diet modification which has been proven to be effective in managing high blood pressure

For adults, Normal blood pressure is defined as 120/80 mmHg.

When blood pressure is equal to or above 140/90 mmHg it is considered to be raised or high.

Some of the symptoms associated include headache, dizziness, impaired vision, filing memory, shortness of breath, unexplained tiredness etc.

Elevated blood pressure arises from a combination of environmental, genetic, lifestyle and dietary factors. For further diagnosis and assistance kindly contact your specialized health care professional.

Adopting an overall dietary pattern such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet is recommended

The DASH dietary pattern emphasizes on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy products, inclusion of lean meat such as chicken or fish etc., reduced saturated and total fat and reduced sodium intake.

Cholesterol is a natural component that is found in human blood and other cells of the body. It supports normal function of cell membranes, and synthesis of hormone, bile acids, Vitamin D etc. Our liver produces cholesterol in adequate amounts that is required by the body.

However increased intake of high fat foods, leads to elevated levels of cholesterol in blood and may potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular disorders. Some of the factors include genetics, stress, sedentary lifestyle, medications, an underlying health condition etc. The type and quantity of fat in the daily diet also influences the level of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.

Certain foods like soyabean, fenugreek, garlic, onion, flaxseeds, oats and turmeric can be included in the daily balanced diet due to their antioxidant properties and biochemical compounds present in them.

Here are a few dietary guidelines to be considered for management of cholesterol & Hypertension

Have a Diversified Balanced Diet that includes all the food groups in the right quantity which thereby provides you with all the essential macro and micro nutrients that your body requires daily for proper functioning.
Choose healthy snacking options in between your meals.
Consume minimum 5 servings of vegetables and 1 serving of fruit as they are rich in Fiber, essential minerals & Vitamins.
Good amount of fiber especially soluble fiber can help lower blood cholesterol. Some of the good sources of soluble fiber include oats, apples, peas, citrus fruits etc.
Consume fresh, seasonal fruits and Whole grains, Millets and Multigrain foods as they are a good source of fiber.
Foods sources containing carotenoids and vitamin E are good sources of antioxidants that may help lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Deep Fried foods to be restricted. Method of cooking like baking, grilling, boiling, steaming is preferable over deep frying with excess fat/ oil.
Limit the consumption of high fat foods such as butter, cheese, red meat etc.
Consuming low fat (skimmed) milk instead of whole milk is preferable.
Restrict consumption of foods that are high in Saturated fatty acids and trans fats. Try switching from saturated fats and trans fats to MUFA (mono-unsaturated fatty acids) & PUFA (polyunsaturated fatty acids) as they are essential fatty acids and are good for your health.
Minimum of 8 glasses of water should be consumed to keep yourself hydrated.
Have your last meal at least 2-3 hours before Bed time.
Engage in physical activity for a minimum of 30-45 minutes for at least 5 days a week.
Try to follow a good sleep regimen in terms of both quantity and quality.