Less carbs, more protein for a healthy heart

BY JULIE SEAMER
MONDAY, JULY 30, 2007

Replacing carbohydrates with protein and saturated fat with monosaturated fat, is better for cholesterol levels, blood pressure (BP) and cardiovascular health, according to a macronutrient intake trail by John Hopkins University.

A diet that replaced 10% of calories from carbohydrate with protein was given to 164 pre-hypertensive adults for six weeks. At the conclusion of the trial it was found that this diet lowered blood pressure, LDL cholesterol and coronary heart-disease risk, leading to a 21% decreased risk of CVD.

Researchers stated 'The magnitude of these effects have both public-health and clinical importance, mitigating the need for drug therapy in persons with risk factor levels about treatment thresholds'. These findings reinforce the importance of diet in prevention and treatment of disease, and the significance of having a balanced diet, where protein, carbohydrate and fat levels meet individual needs.

Aussie Bodies provides a free online tool to calculate your daily nutrient allocation of protein, carbohydrates and fat. The PCF Calculator is even customised to suit your lifestyle goal of gaining muscle, putting on weight or losing body fat.

After calculating your daily targets, use the Menu Maker to create a nutritionally balanced meal plan, unique to your dietary needs. Choose from a large database of raw ingredients, processed foods and Aussie Bodies products. Get creative, print out your menu and feel assured that you are maintaining optimum wellness, now and for the future.