Final answer:
To reduce blood cholesterol levels, Dana should eat fish and poultry, which contain healthier unsaturated fats and are lower in saturated fats compared to beef or processed snacks.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dana wants to reduce her blood cholesterol level by eating fish and poultry, compared to other options such as beef, processed snacks, or red meat. It's essential to understand that a diet high in saturated fat and cholesterol can increase cholesterol levels in the body, contributing to plaque buildup in arteries. Foods that are high in cholesterol tend to be high in saturated fats as well, which are primarily found in animal products. Therefore, making dietary choices towards lean meats like fish and poultry, which are generally lower in saturated fat and may contain beneficial unsaturated fats like omega-3 fatty acids, can help in managing cholesterol levels.
Eating more fish and chicken and de-emphasizing processed foods align with recommendations for reducing dietary fats and improving one's health. Processed snacks often contain high levels of salt and sugar alongside unhealthy fats and should be limited. Whole foods, particularly those high in unsaturated fats such as fish and poultry, support healthier blood cholesterol levels. Hence, it is beneficial to limit saturated fats found in foods like red meat and instead choose foods rich in unsaturated fats, like certain fish oils that can help lower the risk of heart disease.