Red Meat Makes Cholesterol Rise? Here's How To Safe Consumption

Illustration of goat meat (Freepic)

JAKARTA - Maintaining a balanced diet is very important to prevent a surge in cholesterol, especially when meat consumption increases, such as during Eid al-Adha celebrations.

A combination of animal protein, complex carbohydrates, fiber from vegetables, and fruits is needed to optimally support the body's metabolism.

Clinical nutrition specialist, Dr. dr. Luciana B. Sutanto, MS, SpGK(K), reminded that although red meat is a high-quality source of protein, excessive consumption without control can actually trigger health problems such as high cholesterol, increased triglycerides, to gout disorders.

"Dagging is good for the body, but the portion still has to be controlled. If it's excessive, especially without being balanced with enough vegetables and carbohydrates, it can have a bad impact," he said as quoted by ANTARA, June 5.

Luciana added that people tend to eat a lot of processed meat during Eid al-Adha, but often ignore nutritional balance. He emphasized the importance of eating large portions of vegetables and fruit as a balancer.

In addition to the type of food, how to process meat also has a major effect on cholesterol levels. Cooking methods such as fried, especially with saturated oil, have the potential to increase the content of bad fats in the body.

Boiling, steaming, or roasting without burning parts is much more recommended. Burned meat actually contains bad carcinogenic substances," he explained.

As President of the Indonesian Nutrition Association (INA), Luciana also encourages people to be more physically active. According to him, activities such as walking fast, swimming, or cycling for at least 30 minutes per day can help burn fat and balance cholesterol levels in the blood.

He also responded to a myth about the consumption of green tea or infused water which was believed to be able to immediately lower cholesterol. According to him, the process of decreasing cholesterol levels cannot occur instantly.

"It takes time and consistency in eating patterns and a healthy lifestyle. Herbal drinks are only supporting, not the main solution," he said.