The beloved British Christmas dinner might come with a hidden health risk, experts have cautioned, telling folks over 50 to cut processed meats from their festive feast for their heart’s sake.
Waistlines and wellbeing are tested during the festive season, with endless snacks available but there’s an addition at the holiday table, claim nutrition experts. They suggest that cutting out processed meat after hitting the half-century mark could be a game-changer in the fight against high cholesterol.
Bacon, sausages and deli meat – including the seasonal staple Pigs in Blankets – are loaded with saturated fats and cholesterol while ditching them could improve blood flow and lower cholesterol, boosting vitality and tackling age-related heart hazards in its wake.
Ski Vertigo wellness expert Alex Dyer said: “We always remind our clients that making small, targeted changes can have profound long-term benefits. Reducing processed meats is not just about lowering cholesterol; it’s about giving your heart the best chance to perform at its peak, whether that’s during mountain treks or daily activities.
“When clients start cutting out processed meats, they often notice improvements in energy levels and recovery times. It’s a change that supports better circulation and reduces the load on the cardiovascular system. The body becomes more efficient, endurance increases, and overall wellness improves.”
While specialists strongly advise trimming down consumption of processed meats regardless of age, they particularly recommend individuals in their 50s to try and eliminate these foods completely.
If totally cutting out processed meats proves a bit too tough, the experts recommended some other food swaps and strategies to assist in managing cholesterol levels and cardiac health.
They emphasised boosting your intake of soluble fibre—which can be found in staples such as oatmeal, lentils, and apples—to significantly enhance your cholesterol profile further.
Swapping out other cholesterol-spiking elements for healthy fats is another wise move to keep cholesterol in check without missing out on sumptuous festive feasts. For instance, opting for olive oil instead of regular salad dressings and upping the intake of fatty fish rich in omega-3 are suggested changes.
Being physically active and ensuring proper hydration during exercise are recognized actions for fortifying heart health and improving blood flow against high cholesterol counts. The health experts suggested a target of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise every week.
