15 foods to avoid with high cholesterol
FOODS THAT CAN CONTRIBUTE TO HIGH CHOLESTEROL THAT YOU MUST AVOID
1. Saturated Fats: Foods high in saturated fats can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. These include fatty meats like beef, lamb, and pork, as well as poultry skin, full-fat dairy products (whole milk, cheese, butter), and tropical oils such as coconut oil and palm oil.
2. Trans Fats: Trans fats are artificially produced fats found in many processed and fried foods. They not only raise LDL cholesterol but also lower HDL (good) cholesterol. Avoid foods like packaged snacks, baked goods, fried foods, and margarine that contain hydrogenated or partially hydrogenated oils.
3. High Cholesterol Animal Products: Organ meats like liver, kidney, and brain are high in cholesterol. While eggs are a good source of protein, the yolk is high in cholesterol, so moderation is key.
4. Shellfish and Certain Seafood: While shellfish (shrimp, crab, lobster) and fatty fish (salmon, sardines) are generally healthy, they do contain some cholesterol. However, they are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have heart-healthy benefits. It’s recommended to enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
5. Fast Food and Processed Snacks: Fast food meals, such as burgers, fries, and fried chicken, are often high in unhealthy fats and cholesterol. Similarly, processed snacks like chips, cookies, and pastries often contain trans fats and contribute to elevated cholesterol levels.
6. Popcorn: plain popcorn is low in cholesterol and good for your health. But you see popcorn made with butter or caramel, avoid them, they are load with cholesterol.
Please note, it’s not about completely eliminating these foods from your diet but rather moderating their consumption and making healthier choices overall. Opting for lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and unsaturated fats can help promote a healthier cholesterol profile.
