1. Many Animal Products Have High Cholesterol Content
Animal products provide cholesterol, some with high amounts, others in moderate quantities. Beef liver, for example, has about 400 milligrams per three-ounce serving. Butter contains 247 milligrams of cholesterol per half-cup. One hard cooked egg contains 213 milligrams of cholesterol, and a chicken liver has 126 milligrams. Conversely, all fruits, nuts, vegetables and seeds are naturally cholesterol-free.
2. Many High Cholesterol Content Foods Are Good
While some foods high in cholesterol, such as cheesecake, may not be the healthiest for you due to all the added sugar, others high in cholesterol are excellent food choices. Beef liver, for example, is very good, nutritionally speaking. Liver provides iron, contains a dense store of Vitamin A, is credited for a mystery endurance factor and is an excellent source of folate and B vitamins. Liver has long been prized as a super food, especially for pregnant women. Liver, then, should not be avoided simply because of its cholesterol content.
3. Your Body Needs Cholesterol from Foods
The brain requires cholesterol to function. Male and female hormones are made using cholesterol in the process. Cholesterol assists the body in regulating blood sugar levels and in making bile salts to digest the oils consumed. Simply put, cholesterol is an integral part of many critical bodily functions. Eliminating cholesterol would be catastrophic to health.
4. Very Low Cholesterol Increases the Risk of Cancer
The risk of cancer and heart disease actually increases when cholesterol levels drop too low. According to research presented in The Cholesterol Myths by Dr. Uffe Ravnskov and in Weston A. Price Foundation publications, prolonged low cholesterol is associated with an increase in risk of cancer, heart disease and other health problems. The earlier a person has too-low cholesterol, the more associated risks increase with time.
5. High Cholesterol Content Foods Protect Your Body from Disease
Foods high in cholesterol actually provide your body with the means to protect itself from cancer and heart disease. Low cholesterol is also associated with faster aging and bone problems. Since cholesterol is utilized in the process of making vitamin D from the sun, and vitamin D is critical for strong bones, cholesterol helps assure healthy bones in children and adults.
