## High Cholesterol Foods Increase the Risk of Dangerous Diseases
Consuming foods high in cholesterol increases the risk of serious health issues
High blood fat levels can lead to life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks and strokes, reducing one’s lifespan. In 2022, the National Institute of Nutrition reported that 29% of adults in Vietnam suffer from dyslipidemia. Of these, 44% live in urban areas, with the highest prevalence among those aged 35-44 years old.
An unhealthy diet, particularly one rich in fatty and cholesterol-laden foods, is a primary cause of high blood fat levels. Excess cholesterol and fat accumulate in the body, increasing the risk of cardiovascular issues.
While cholesterol is essential for human cells, excessive intake can lead to build-up in the arteries, resulting in atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and stroke. Contrary to popular belief, red meat and pork fat are not the only culprits; there is one dish that contains even higher levels of cholesterol.
A dish with higher cholesterol than pork fat
That dish is pork offal, a delicacy among many Vietnamese. However, according to Vietnamnet, PGS.TS Nguyen Thi Lam, former Vice Director of the National Institute of Nutrition, revealed that 100 grams of pork offal contains approximately 400 mg of cholesterol, compared to only 95 mg in pork fat. This makes the offal’s cholesterol content four times higher.
The recommended daily cholesterol intake is less than 300 mg, according to the National Institute of Nutrition. Consuming 100 grams of pork offal exceeds this limit, excluding cholesterol from other food sources.
Additionally, pork offal is rich in purines, which can exacerbate gout. It may also harbor bacteria, parasites, and other harmful substances, leading to digestive issues, food poisoning, and parasitic infections if consumed from uncertain sources or improperly prepared.
Precautions when consuming pork offal
When eating pork offal, ensure you source it from reputable vendors with high sanitary standards. Always thoroughly clean and cook the offal before consumption, as high temperatures kill parasites. Given its high cholesterol content, limit your intake to once a week, with a serving size of 70-80 grams.
Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as high cholesterol, blood fat, diabetes, hypertension, gout, or obesity, as well as the elderly, should refrain from consuming pork offal due to its potential to exacerbate their conditions and lead to severe complications.
