When you’re dealing with high cholesterol, it’s easy to feel helpless and unsure of what foods you can safely enjoy. Snacking can be a particular challenge, since many popular snack foods can be high in cholesterol.

But don’t worry – there are plenty of tasty, satisfying snacks that won’t harm your heart health. Here are 10 delicious options to try:.

1. Fresh Berries with Greek Yogurt

Berries are packed with antioxidants that can help protect your heart, and Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium. The combination of the two makes for a delicious, satisfying snack that’s also good for you.

Choose fresh berries and unsweetened Greek yogurt to keep sugar and calorie counts under control.

2. Carrots and Hummus

Carrots are high in fiber and low in calories, and hummus is a great source of protein and healthy fats. Plus, the creamy, savory dip is a delicious way to liven up your carrot sticks.

Look for hummus brands that are low in sodium and made with heart-healthy oils like olive oil.

3. Apple Slices with Almond Butter

Apples are another fruit that’s loaded with heart-healthy antioxidants and fiber. Pairing them with almond butter adds protein and healthy fats to the mix, making for a snack that will keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Choose almond butters that are free of added sugars or oils.

4. Roasted Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, and they’re delicious when roasted with a variety of spices. You can make your own roasted chickpeas at home or look for premade brands that are low in sodium and oil-free.

5. Air-Popped Popcorn

Popcorn is a classic snack food, and it turns out that air-popped popcorn is actually good for your heart! It’s high in fiber and low in calories, and you can jazz it up with a variety of herbs and spices for extra flavor.

Just be sure to steer clear of microwave popcorn, which can be high in unhealthy fats and sodium.

6. Whole Grain Crackers with Nut Butter

Whole grain crackers are a great source of fiber and complex carbohydrates, and pairing them with nut butter adds protein and healthy fats. Look for nut butters that are free of added sugars and oils to keep this snack as healthy as possible.

7. Edamame

Edamame – or steamed soybeans – are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber, and they make for a satisfying snack that’s low in calories. Look for edamame that’s lightly salted or unsalted to keep sodium levels in check.

8. Kale Chips

Kale is a superfood that’s loaded with vitamins and nutrients, and when baked into crispy chips, it makes for a delicious snack. You can make your own kale chips at home or look for premade brands that are low in sodium and oil-free.

9. Hard-Boiled Eggs

Hard-boiled eggs are a simple, no-fuss snack that’s high in protein and healthy fats. They’re also easy to prep ahead of time for an on-the-go snack.

Just be sure to watch your intake of cholesterol-rich foods if you’re trying to manage high cholesterol.

10. Dark Chocolate

Yes, you read that right – dark chocolate can actually be good for your heart! It’s high in antioxidants and flavonoids that can help improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.

Just be sure to choose dark chocolate that’s at least 70% cocoa to get the most heart-healthy benefits.

Conclusion

Managing high cholesterol can be a challenge, but that doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite snacks.

With a little creativity and some smart choices, you can enjoy plenty of delicious, heart-healthy snacks that will keep you feeling satisfied and energized throughout the day.