There are certain spreads on the market that can help lower cholesterol by reducing cholesterol absorption.However, not all spreads do.
Cholesterol lowering spreads such as Benecol, Flora Pro Activ and Danone Danacol contain plant sterols (naturally occurring substances usually found in grains such as maize and wheat, and oils such as soya, olive and vegetable oil) that have scientifically been proven to lower LDL cholesterol in the blood. A prescribed amount of these sterols (2-3g) should be eaten each day to help lower cholesterol levels. They are available in spreads, cheeses and yogurts.
It is important to remember that spreads such as these are only one part of a healthy balanced diet. Other important dietary factors to consider are:
- eating at least 5 portions of fruit and veg every day;
- increasing pulses, such as beans, peas and lentils, in your diet as they contain soluble fibre, which can help lower cholesterol;
- reducing alcohol intake;
- cutting down on saturated and trans fats in your diet;
- including oily fish in your diet.
