Broccoli, weight & cholesterol

Question
Can you tell me if the head of the broccoli or the stalk is more healthy?  Also, can you tell me what the top 10 best foods are to lose weight and help lower cholesterol?

thank you,
Landon"

Answer
Hi Landon, The flower part of the broccoli is supposed to have more beta carotene. I'm sure the stalks probably have more fiber, so they are both healthy to eat. High cholesterol can be caused by genetics or diet. If it's diet related, it's usually due to a diet high in processed foods containing trans or hydrogenated fats. These synthetic fats are foreign to the body and the body has a problem getting rid of them, hence they start binding with the natural cholesterol your body is already making. They can also bind with the other fats found in the diet. All this binding and clogging causes the heart disease. Processed foods can contain the most trans fats. Donuts, crackers, cookies, other processed foods found on the shelf, can contain trans fats and should be avoided to help lower cholesterol levels.
The best foods to help reduce weight and lower cholesterol would be; apples, oranges, strawberries, oatmeal, whole wheat bread, carrots, brussels sprouts, broccoli, turnips, non fat dairy, fish, poultry, lean meats, and healthy oils like those found in olive oils and sunflower seeds. I realize that's more than 10, but you can generalize it down to whole food groups if you want. Hope that helps, Laura Kraemer,Slimkids.com

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