High-protein bedtime dessert lowers cholesterol while you sleep
If you're trying to lower your cholesterol, you'll want to avoid saturated fats and instead focus on foods that are high in fiber and protein.
If you often find yourself battling late-night hunger pangs and choose to ignore your hunger cue you might want to reconsider.
Instead, consider heading to the kitchen for a satisfying snack that's rich in protein and can help lower cholesterol.
High cholesterol impacts millions of people and is a major risk factor for heart disease. However, this doesn't mean that heart issues are inevitable - maintaining healthy cholesterol levels is entirely possible.
- Nightmare map shows which U.S. cities would vanish under water if glacier melts
- Trump dementia fears as strange bulge spotted in his pants
"Keeping cholesterol levels in a healthy range helps reduce the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries, which can lead to heart disease over time," advised Kathleen Benson, RDN, CSSD, CPT.
As always, the food you eat can play a pivotal role in managing cholesterol levels. Balanced meals packed with fiber and protein can be beneficial, but don't underestimate the power of a good snack.
Even a late-night nibble can be advantageous, reported Surrey Live.
Chia seed pudding is a trendy alternative to traditional sweet puddings and can be customized with flavors like chocolate, berries, or tropical fruits. Plus, it's loaded with protein, essential nutrients, and ingredients known to help lower cholesterol.
"When I have a client trying to manage high cholesterol levels, we focus on getting more fiber and healthier fats in their diet," shared Meggie Connelly, Ms., RD, LDN, as reported by Eating Well.
Chia seed pudding is rich in fiber, boasting around 11 grams per serving, and contains a blend of both soluble and insoluble fiber.
The secret to chia seeds' ability to lower cholesterol lies in their soluble fiber, which grabs onto cholesterol in the gut and helps flush it out of the body, thus reducing overall levels. Yet, dietary cholesterol doesn't always directly impact blood cholesterol.
However, saturated fats are a surefire way to raise cholesterol. These fats are predominantly found in full-fat dairy products, red and processed meats, lard, and ghee, and they can trigger your liver to overproduce cholesterol, leading to an excess in your system.
Don't miss: Doctor names 'number 1 best food in the world' that helps unclog your arteries
Don't miss: Tuno mayo will taste its best when using one extra common ingredient
Don't miss: Baker's freezer trick keeps bread fresh for significantly longer
Opting for chia pudding made with almond milk can cut down on the saturated fat content per serving.
You're also free to swap in any plant-based milk you prefer, such as soy, cashew, or oat milk, or even regular low-fat cow's milk, but be wary of coconut milk and full-fat cow's milk due to their high saturated fat content.
Chia seeds are touted as a superfood and boast a high protein content, making them an excellent choice for a late-night snack that keeps you satisfied longer.
"This will help you feel full during the night and help control blood sugar levels so you're not starving by the morning," advises Brannon Blount, MS., RDN.
Each serving of chia pudding packs 7 grams of protein, notably from plant sources, which have been associated with improved heart health and are recommended by the American Heart Association as the preferred protein source, including nuts, seeds, and kernels.
