Most commercial chocolate chip cookies are regarded as empty-calories foods that are high in fat and low in nutritional value. The new Right Direction Chocolate Chip Cookies maker claimed that their all-natural, guilt-free cookies can effectively lower cholesterol. A few readers were skeptical of this claim and asked us to investigate.
RD Chocolate Chip Cookies contain impressive ingredients
Upon a thorough review of the nutritional information and ingredient list, we are impressed by these cookies.
Each cookie contains 5 grams of fiber. A food item can be labeled as "high fiber" when it contains at least 5 grams of fiber per serving.
Out of the total 5 grams of fiber, 4 grams are indeed soluble fiber from psyllium. This amount of soluble fiber is high, considered that a bowl of oatmeal contains only 3 grams of soluble fiber. Numerous studies have shown that soluble fiber can lower the bad low density lipoprotein or LDL cholesterol. Five to 10 grams of soluble fiber a day lower LDL cholesterol by about 5 percent. Some studies showed that this amount can lower cholesterol by as much as 23 percent.
Each cookie also contains 2.4 grams of plant sterols, powerful substances naturally found in plants that have the ability to block cholesterol absorption. Studies show that eating two servings of sterol-fortified foods daily result in a 10 to 15 percent drop in LDL cholesterol levels.
These cookies are made with non-hydrogenated oil, making them truly trans-fat free.
Indeed, researchers from the University of Connecticut investigated these cookies on blood cholesterol profile in a small study with 33 adults. Results showed that the LDL cholesterol levels of participants from the RD chocolate chips cookie group were lowered by 10 percent. The results of this study were published in the Journal of Nutrition in October 2006.
Warnings:
As these cookies contain high levels of plant sterols and soluble fiber, it is considered a functional food and hence it is best to consult with your doctor. It is important to note that plant sterols are not for everyone. The American Heart Association recommends it only for people with high levels of LDL cholesterol.
In addition, due to the high level of fiber, the maker suggested drinking at least a glass of fluid with each cookie eaten.
Disclaimer: HealthCastle.com Nutrition does not receive monetary compensation for this review. Reviews on this website do not endorse commercial products or trade names.
Most commercial chocolate chip cookies are regarded as empty-calories foods that are high in fat and low in nutritional value. The new Right Direction Chocolate Chip Cookies maker claimed that their all-natural, guilt-free cookies can effectively lower cholesterol. A few readers were skeptical of this claim and asked us to investigate.
Warnings:
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