Beware of Coconut Milk and Sweet Food Consumption During Eid, Can Trigger Cholesterol and High Blood Pressure

Kapanlagi.com - Eid is synonymous with various delicious dishes, from chicken opor, rendang, to tempting sweet cakes. However, behind the deliciousness, excessive consumption of coconut and sweet foods can have a negative impact on health, especially for those with high cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes.

Nutritionists remind us that foods high in saturated fats and sugars can increase bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and trigger spikes in blood sugar that are risky for diabetics. The effects may not be felt immediately, but if consumed continuously in large amounts, it can lead to serious health problems.

What is the impact of consuming coconut and sweet foods on health, and how can we control it? Check out the complete explanation below.

1. Coconut Milk and Sweet Foods, A Dangerous Combination for Cholesterol and Heart

Coconut milk dishes such as chicken opor, rendang, and curry contain high levels of saturated fat, which, if consumed excessively, can raise cholesterol levels in the blood.

According to research, 300 ml of coconut milk contains about 51 grams of saturated fat, exceeding the recommended daily intake limit. If consumed without control, this can trigger the blockage of blood vessels (atherosclerosis), which poses a risk of heart disease and stroke.

Meanwhile, sweet foods like nastar, layered cake, and pudding contain simple sugars that can cause spikes in blood sugar levels, thus increasing the risk of diabetes and obesity. Therefore, it is very important to control the consumption of coconut milk and sweet foods during Eid.

"Weight can quickly increase due to the excessive caloric content of the food consumed," said health expert Dr. Ida Gunawan, M.S, Sp.GK, M.Kes (K), FINEM, referring to ANTARA.

2. Increased Blood Pressure due to Coconut Milk and Sweet Foods

One of the adverse effects of consuming coconut milk and high-sugar foods is an increase in blood pressure, especially for those who already have a history of hypertension.

The saturated fat in coconut milk can lead to plaque buildup in blood vessels, making the arteries stiff and increasing blood pressure. The same goes for foods high in sugar, which can cause damage to blood vessels and increase the risk of hypertension.

If left uncontrolled, this condition can increase the likelihood of heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, individuals with high blood pressure are advised to reduce their intake of coconut milk and sweet foods and to increase their fiber intake from fruits and vegetables.

3. Impact on the Digestive System: Stomach Acid to Diarrhea

Coconut milk can also disrupt the digestive system, especially for those with stomach issues such as acid reflux (GERD) or gastritis.

Coconut milk consumed in large amounts can increase stomach acid production, causing a burning sensation, nausea, and bloating. Additionally, coconut milk combined with sweet foods can accelerate fermentation in the intestines, triggering excessive gas and diarrhea.

To avoid digestive disturbances after Eid, it is recommended not to consume large amounts of coconut milk immediately after a month of fasting, and to balance it with adequate water intake and vegetables.

4.

In addition to coconut milk, excessive consumption of sweet foods can also increase the risk of type 2 diabetes.

The high sugar content in Lebaran cakes such as kastengel, layer cake, and steamed sponge cake can cause insulin resistance, which is a condition where the body cannot use insulin effectively to regulate blood sugar levels. As a result, blood sugar can rise drastically, increasing the risk of developing diabetes.

To still enjoy sweet foods during Lebaran without worry, it is advisable to limit sugar consumption to no more than 50 grams per day according to WHO recommendations, and to replace snacks with healthier fresh fruits.

(kpl/frr)