Cholesterol is a type of fat or lipid that is found in our blood. It is produced by our liver and also obtained from the foods we eat. Having high levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Therefore, it’s essential to keep your cholesterol levels in check. This article highlights 20 foods to avoid if you have high cholesterol.

Egg yolks

Eggs are a great source of protein, but the yellow part (yolk) contains a high amount of cholesterol. A large egg can contain up to 186mg of cholesterol, and experts recommend not consuming more than 300mg of cholesterol daily.

Therefore, it’s crucial to monitor your egg intake, especially if you have high cholesterol levels.

Fatty Meats

Fatty meats such as beef, pork, and lamb are high in saturated fat, which can increase levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

LDL is often referred to as “bad cholesterol” because it can build up in the walls of your arteries, leading to heart disease and stroke. Instead, choose leaner cuts of meat such as chicken or turkey breast without the skin.

Butter and Margarine

Butter and margarine are also high in saturated and trans fats. These fats have been shown to raise blood cholesterol levels, increasing the risk of heart disease.

It’s best to use alternatives such as olive oil or canola oil, which contain monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats that are beneficial for your health.

Processed Meats

Processed meats such as sausages, bacon, and ham are high in saturated fats and sodium. Sodium can cause high blood pressure, and increasing intake of sodium can increase the risk of heart disease.

Instead, choose fresh lean meats or plant-based protein sources such as beans, peas, lentils, or tofu.

Full-Fat Dairy Products

Full-fat dairy products such as cheese, cream, and whole milk are high in saturated fats. However, low-fat or skimmed dairy products are healthier alternatives. They have the same nutrients as full-fat dairy but with fewer saturated fats.

Dairy products can also be replaced with plant-based milk such as almond, soy, or oat milk.

Baked Goods

Baked goods such as cakes, pastries, and cookies are often high in sugar, saturated fats, and trans fats. These unhealthy fats can increase levels of LDL cholesterol and blood sugar levels, leading to other health problems such as type 2 diabetes.

Instead, have fresh fruits, nuts, or seeds as a snack between meals.

Fast Food

Fast food is typically high in calories, saturated fats, and trans fats. Fast food burgers, fries, and milkshakes should be avoided as much as possible.

If you must eat fast food, choose grilled options instead of fried options, and opt for salad instead of French fries. Also, watch for portion sizes because many fast-food chains serve much larger portions than necessary.

Sweets and Candy

Sweets and candy are often high in sugar, which can lead to weight gain, high blood sugar levels, and other related health problems. Instead of consuming sweets and candy, consider having fruits or natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup.

Also, watch out for hidden sugars in packaged foods such as breakfast cereals and yogurts.

Alcohol

Alcohol can increase blood pressure and triglyceride levels, leading to heart disease.

Moderate alcohol consumption (up to one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men) is safe, but excessive alcohol consumption can have harmful effects on your health. Therefore, people with high cholesterol should limit their alcohol intake.

Saturated and Hydrogenated Oils

Saturated and hydrogenated oils are commonly found in packaged and processed foods such as chips, crackers, and fried foods. These oils can increase LDL cholesterol levels and reduce high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.

HDL cholesterol is often referred to as “good cholesterol” since it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. Therefore, it’s essential to avoid foods containing saturated and hydrogenated oils.

Canned Soups

Canned soups are often high in sodium, which can increase blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease. Therefore, it’s best to opt for homemade soups or low-sodium soups if canned soups are your only option.

Shellfish

Shellfish such as shrimp, lobster, and crab are low in fat but high in cholesterol. Therefore, people with high cholesterol should limit their shellfish intake. A three-ounce serving of shrimp can contain up to 166mg of cholesterol.

However, plant-based sources of protein such as beans, peas, and lentils are excellent alternatives.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is high in saturated fat and can increase LDL cholesterol levels. Although it contains antioxidants, experts recommend using it sparingly or not at all, especially if you have high cholesterol levels.

High-Sugar Drinks

High-sugar drinks such as sodas and fruit juices can lead to weight gain, high blood sugar levels, and other related health problems. Instead, opt for water or unsweetened drinks such as tea or coffee.

High-Sugar Breakfast Cereals

High-sugar breakfast cereals can lead to weight gain, high blood sugar levels, and other related health problems. Instead, opt for low-sugar cereals or granola with natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup.

Red Wine

Red wine contains antioxidants that can benefit your health. However, too much red wine can lead to weight gain, high blood pressure, and other health problems. Therefore, it’s essential to limit your red wine consumption.

Takeaway

Managing your cholesterol levels is crucial to prevent heart disease and stroke. Avoiding foods that are high in saturated and trans fats, sodium, and sugar can help improve your cholesterol levels.

Instead, opt for fresh fruits, vegetables, lean protein sources, and whole grains. You should also exercise regularly, quit smoking, and maintain a healthy weight.