Healthy eating can make a significant difference in how you look and feel. In fact, for people living with high cholesterol, eating the right foods can help you reach your cholesterol targets, including your Cholesterol Ratio - the relationship between total cholesterol (TC) and good cholesterol (HDL) in the body.

The Cholesterol Ratio is among the best predictors of long-term cardiovascular risk.

But changing your diet can be difficult especially with confusing and conflicting nutritional information. According to registered dietitian Sandy Schwenger, along with eating lower fat foods (particularly saturated fats), there are other basic principles of healthy eating that remain true:

. Choose a variety of foods from the four basic food groups - vegetables and fruits, grains, dairy, and meat and alternatives.

. Start your day with a nutritious breakfast - breakfast fuels your day and can help you avoid over-eating later in the day.

. Watch your portion sizes - for instance, a single serving of meat is about the size of a deck of cards.

. Drink lots of water to keep yourself well hydrated.

. Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day - this gives your body a steady supply of energy and can help you avoid overindulging.

. Limit your salt, alcohol and caffeine intake.

More information is available online at www.knowyourratio.ca, a new resource that offers cholesterol patients information and tips for choosing the right diet to help reach your Cholesterol Ratio target.

Credit: www.newscanada.com

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