Choose Nutrient-Dense Whole Foods
The best foods for gaining weight without increasing cholesterol are high in both calories and nutrients.
“The first step is to focus on nutrient-dense whole plant foods,” says Cate Collings, MD, a cardiologist and health coach in California. “By including foods that are also calorie-dense with healthy fats, such as avocados and nuts, you can increase weight without raising cholesterol.”
“Don’t resort to processed foods, added processed fats, or junk foods to add up the calories,” Dr. Collings advises. “They may seem like short-term solutions but won’t go the distance to support healthy, sustainable, lean body mass and weight.”
The right kind of protein can help you gain muscle instead of fat, Collings says. She recommends high-quality plant-based sources, such as tofu, lentils, beans, quinoa, and hemp and chia seeds.
“These are all power sources of protein, but they’re also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals in just the right balance,” she says.
Source link