Cholesterol is an essential substance that the human body needs to function properly. However, high levels of cholesterol in the blood can lead to several health problems, including heart disease.

Diet plays an important role in managing cholesterol levels. Therefore, it is important to know which foods to avoid if you have high cholesterol. Here are the 10 worst foods for your cholesterol levels:.

Fried Foods

Fried foods, such as chicken nuggets, French fries, and doughnuts, are high in saturated and trans fats.

These fats raise the LDL (bad cholesterol) levels in the blood, which can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.

Processed Meats

Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, are high in cholesterol and saturated fats. Eating these foods regularly can raise your LDL levels and increase the risk of heart disease.

Butter and Margarine

Butter and margarine are high in saturated fats, which can increase your cholesterol levels. It is best to limit your intake of these foods and choose heart-healthy oils, such as olive or canola oil.

Full-Fat Dairy

Full-fat dairy products, such as cheese, milk, and yogurt, are high in saturated fat. Low-fat or fat-free options are a better choice for managing cholesterol levels.

Related Article The Cholesterol-Heavy Foods to Avoid

Baked Goods

Many baked goods, such as pastries, cookies, and cakes, are high in saturated and trans fats. These fats can raise your LDL levels and increase your risk of heart disease.

Egg Yolks

Egg yolks are high in cholesterol. Limit your intake of egg yolks to two to three per week if you have high cholesterol.

Fast Food

Fast food is often high in trans fats, which can raise LDL levels and increase the risk of heart disease. Eating fast food regularly can also lead to weight gain and obesity, which can further increase the risk of heart disease.

Sugary Beverages

Sugary beverages, such as soda and fruit juice, are high in calories and sugar. Drinking these beverages regularly can lead to weight gain and obesity, which can raise LDL levels and increase the risk of heart disease.

Certain Seafood

Certain types of seafood, such as shrimp and lobster, are high in cholesterol. Although these foods are generally low in saturated fat, it is best to limit your intake if you have high cholesterol.

Red Meat

Red meat, such as beef and pork, is high in saturated fat. Eating too much red meat can raise your LDL levels and increase the risk of heart disease. It is best to choose lean cuts of meat and limit your intake.