Eating to Alleviate Ailments - High Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol is one of a number of different kinds of fat in the bloodstream. Unlike ‘the omegas’ (‘essential fatty acids’), however, it has a bad name, which is a bit unfair because small amounts of cholesterol are actually beneficial as they help to patch up damaged parts of your blood vessels. The problem with cholesterol occurs when we have too much because it not only patches up blood vessel walls, but can actually plug a large part of an artery, greatly increasing the possibility of a heart attack or stroke. So, how can we keep our cholesterol levels in check? You’ve guessed it – watch what you eat! Basically, you need to avoid deep-fried meals, too much meat and sweet food. Instead, make sure you get plenty of fruit and veg, and opt for healthy cooking oils like olive, sesame and flaxseed. Some foods that have been found to lower cholesterol levels include onions, garlic, beetroot, sunflower seeds, green beans and salmon. Here’s my recipe for a meal with great cholesterol-reducing properties, chilli-fried green beans with flaxseed oil.
Recipe for Szechuan Chilli-Fried Green Beans with Flax Seed Oil
250g Pack of Fine Green Beans
15ml Sesame Oil
15 ml Fresh Root Ginger (finely chopped)
1 Clove of Garlic (crushed)
1 Red Chilli (finely chopped and de-seeded)
15ml Flaxseed Oil
15ml Toasted Sesame Seeds
Blanch the green beans in boiling water. Heat a wok or large frying pan and add the sesame oil. When the oil is hot, add the ginger, garlic and red chilli and stir-fry. Toss the beans and cook for a further 3 minutes. Add the flaxseed oil, mix well and remove from the pan. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and serve.
