Among the various foods Koreans enjoy, some surprisingly contain high cholesterol levels. Even foods generally considered healthy can contribute to weight gain. Here is a detailed introduction to the top 10 Korean foods with high cholesterol levels.
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1. Gejang
Gejang is a dish made by marinating crabs seasoned with Ganjang (soy sauce) or gochujang (red chili paste). In particular, Ganjang Gejang contains about 250mg of cholesterol per single crab (about 200g). While Gejang is high in protein, it also has a high cholesterol content, so caution is needed. Its savory and salty taste makes it easy to overeat, so it is essential to consume it in moderation.
2. Grilled Eel
Eel is popular as a tonic food that helps restore vitality. A serving of grilled eel (200g) contains about 230mg of cholesterol, equivalent to 76% of the recommended daily intake for adults. The high-fat content of the eel can significantly increase blood cholesterol levels if consumed excessively. It’s advisable to eat grilled eel with vegetables to reduce fat intake.
3. Gomtang (Beef Bone Soup)
Gomtang is a soup made by boiling beef bones for a long time. One bowl (about 500g) contains about 200mg of cholesterol. The fatty broth of the soup can affect cholesterol levels, and the fat in the soup can increase blood cholesterol levels. It’s recommended to remove the fat before consuming the soup.
4. Gopchang (Grilled Beef Intestines)
Gopchang, a dish made from Beef intestines, is popular for its savory taste and chewy texture. A serving of grilled Gopchang (200g) contains about 180mg of cholesterol. The high-fat content of Gopchang can negatively affect cholesterol levels and harm vascular health if consumed frequently. It’s recommended to eat grilled Gopchang with vegetables to reduce cholesterol absorption.
5. Cheese Tteokbokki
Cheese tteokbokki is a dish with cheese added to tteokbokki to enhance the flavor. A serving of cheese tteokbokki (300g) contains about 180mg of cholesterol. The high cholesterol content in cheese requires caution, and if consumed excessively with the carbohydrates in tteokbokki, it can lead to obesity. Eating cheese tteokbokki in moderation and balancing it with vegetables is important.
6. Galbijjim (Braised Short Ribs)
Galbijjim is a dish of braised beef short ribs marinated with seasoning. It contains about 160mg of cholesterol per 200g. The ribs have a rich flavor due to the combination of fat layers and seasoning, but the high fat and cholesterol content requires avoiding excessive consumption. It’s advisable to remove the fat before eating Galbijjim.
7. Myeongranjeot (Salted Pollock Roe)
Myeongranjeot is a salted seafood dish made from pollock roe. It contains about 150mg of cholesterol per 100g. While Myeongranjeot has a uniquely salty flavor, it also has a high cholesterol content, so it’s important to consume it in moderation. People with high blood pressure or cardiovascular diseases should be cautious.
8. Samgyeopsal (Grilled Pork Belly)
Samgyeopsal is a popular Korean meat dish. It contains about 90mg of cholesterol per 100g, and the high-fat content can quickly raise cholesterol levels. The fat that drips during grilling includes many saturated fatty acids, which can harm health. It is advisable to grill Samgyeopsal thoroughly and remove the fat before consuming it.
9. Dakbal (Spicy Chicken Feet)
Dakbal is a popular snack enjoyed with spicy seasoning. It contains about 80mg of cholesterol per 100g, and frequent consumption can raise cholesterol levels. While the collagen in chicken feet can benefit skin health, it’s important not to overeat due to the strong seasoning.
10. Abalone
Abalone is a popular luxury seafood. One abalone (about 100g) contains about 100mg of cholesterol. While abalone is nutritious and good for health, it also has high cholesterol levels, so it’s important to consume it in moderation. Especially when cooking abalone, avoiding oily seasonings and consuming them with fresh vegetables for a healthier meal is better.
As such, the foods we usually enjoy can surprisingly contain high cholesterol levels. It’s important to regulate intake for health.
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