Lipids
Lipids include fatty acids, triglycerides, phospholipids and cholesterol. Lipids store and provide energy for our muscles and cells, when energy is required in the body. There are two categories of fat, saturated and unsaturated fat. Saturated fat increases total blood cholesterol and low-density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol. This is “bad” cholesterol that deposits plaque in our arteries which can block blood flow, causing disruptions in regular blood flow. This is a major cause of cardiovascular disease and may worsen existing illnesses. Unsaturated fat contains high density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol or “good” cholesterol. HDL cholesterol prevents cardiovascular disease because it carries LDL cholesterol form the arteries to our liver where it can be broken down and eventually released from the body.
A patient with CKD should consume lipids in moderation that are high in unsaturated fat.
High Sources of Unsaturated (good) Fat:
High Sources of Saturated (bad) Fat:
Here is a helpful handout from the BC Renal Agency for diet tips to lower cholesterol!