Study suggests red and white meats could be equally harmful to cholesterol | Life

NEW YORK, June 5 – According to a new US study, white and white meats have equivalent effects on blood cholesterol levels.

The study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition and led by scientists from the Oakland Research Institute of Children's Hospital (CHORI), found that consuming large amounts of red or white meat increased LDL (low density lipoprotein) levels – often referred to as bad "cholesterol – present in the blood.

The study focused on generally healthy men and women aged 21 to 65, randomly divided into two groups. The volunteers were assigned to diets containing red meat, white meat or meatless protein, consumed for four weeks in a random order.

"When we planned this study, we expected red meat to have a more negative effect on blood cholesterol levels than white meat, but we were surprised that this was not the case – their effects on Cholesterol levels are the same when saturated fat levels are equivalent, "according to lead author of the study, Ronald Krauss, scientific director, director of atherosclerosis research at CHORI.

Promote vegetable proteins

Often associated with the contribution to "bad" cholesterol, the consumption of red meat is generally recommended in moderation, while white meat, generally leaner, is generally considered a healthier alternative. However, the study suggests that this might not be the case.

In fact, the findings suggest that a total restriction of the meat – whether it is red or white – might be more judicious than previously thought to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood.

Indeed, the study suggests that vegetable proteins, such as beans, are the healthiest choice for blood cholesterol levels.

"Our results indicate that current advice to limit red meat and not white meat should not be based solely on their effects on blood cholesterol," Krauss said.

"Indeed, other effects of red meat consumption could contribute to heart disease, and these effects need to be explored in more detail in order to improve health." – AFP-Relaxnews