When it comes to managing your cholesterol and triglyceride levels, dietary choices play a critical role. While most people focus on avoiding high-cholesterol foods, the impact of beverages is often overlooked.

Many popular drinks are packed with added sugars, unhealthy fats, and other ingredients that can significantly raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels. In this article, we will explore the top 30 drinks you should avoid if you’re looking to maintain healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

1. Sugary Soda

Sugary soda, such as cola and other carbonated beverages, are highly caloric and contain excessive amounts of sugar. These drinks often lack any nutritional value and can lead to weight gain, high triglycerides, and increased LDL cholesterol levels.

2. Fruit Juices

While fruits themselves are beneficial, many commercially available fruit juices are processed and loaded with added sugars. These sugars can increase triglycerides and contribute to elevated cholesterol levels. Opt for whole fruits instead.

3. Sweetened Coffee Drinks

Coffee drinks made with sweeteners, flavored syrups, creamers, and whipped cream are high in calories and unhealthy fats.

These additives can raise cholesterol and triglycerides, so stick to plain, black coffee or use healthier alternatives like almond milk and a touch of natural sweeteners.

4. Energy Drinks

While energy drinks can provide a temporary energy boost, they often contain excessive amounts of sugar, caffeine, and other stimulants. These ingredients can increase cholesterol levels and lead to other health issues when consumed in excess.

5. Sports Drinks

While sports drinks can be helpful for athletes engaging in intense workouts, they are unnecessary for most people. Sports drinks can contain high levels of sugar and sodium, leading to increased triglycerides and potential cholesterol problems.

6. Sweetened Iced Tea

Iced tea can be a refreshing beverage, but when sweetened with added sugars and syrups, it can become a significant source of empty calories. These sweetened versions can contribute to elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

7. Flavored Water

Flavored waters are often marketed as a healthy alternative to soda, but they can still contain added sugars and artificial sweeteners that can impact cholesterol and triglyceride levels. It’s best to stick to plain, filtered water.

8. Milkshakes

Milkshakes, especially those from fast-food chains, are loaded with saturated fats, sugars, and excessive calories. These ingredients can lead to increased cholesterol levels and should be consumed sparingly, if at all.

9. Alcohol

While moderate alcohol consumption may have some health benefits, excessive drinking can negatively impact cholesterol levels. Heavy alcohol consumption can lead to increased triglycerides and LDL cholesterol levels.

10. Sweetened Cocktails

Cocktails containing sugary mixers or fruit juice can be particularly high in added sugars and calories. These sweetened cocktails can significantly contribute to raised cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

11. Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate drinks are often packed with added sugars and unhealthy fats. These ingredients can raise cholesterol levels and should be consumed in moderation, or opt for healthier versions made with unsweetened cocoa and natural sweeteners.

12. Flavored Coffee Creamers

Coffee creamers, especially the flavored varieties, can contain unhealthy trans fats, added sugars, and artificial additives. These can lead to increased LDL cholesterol and should be avoided.

13. Sweetened Almond Milk

While almond milk is a popular dairy alternative, some varieties are sweetened with added sugars. These sweetened versions can contribute to elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Opt for unsweetened almond milk or other non-dairy alternatives.

14. Sweetened Soy Milk

Similar to almond milk, sweetened soy milk can contain added sugars that can impact cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Choose unsweetened soy milk or opt for other unsweetened plant-based milk alternatives.

15. Dairy Milk

While dairy milk is a significant source of calcium and other nutrients, it also contains saturated fats that can increase LDL cholesterol levels. Choose low-fat or skim milk options or consider non-dairy alternatives if you have high cholesterol.

16. Slushies and Frozen Drinks

Slushies and frozen drinks are often loaded with added sugars and syrups, contributing to high-calorie intake and raised triglyceride levels. These drinks should be consumed sparingly or avoided altogether.

17. Sweetened Protein Shakes

Protein shakes can be a convenient way to fuel your body, but many commercial varieties are sweetened with added sugars. These sweetened versions can lead to elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Opt for unsweetened protein powders and sweeten them with natural alternatives.

18. Lemonade

While lemonade made with fresh lemons can be a healthy option, many commercially available lemonades are packed with added sugars. These sugars can contribute to high cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

19. Sweetened Fruit Smoothies

Fruit smoothies, especially those from smoothie chains, often contain excessive amounts of sugar in the form of sweetened fruit juices, syrups, or added sweeteners. These ingredients can significantly impact cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

20. Flavored Milk

Flavored milk options, such as chocolate or strawberry milk, are typically high in added sugars and unhealthy fats. These can increase cholesterol levels and should be consumed sparingly.

21. Sweetened Iced Coffee

Iced coffee drinks that are flavored and sweetened can contain excessive amounts of sugar, unhealthy fats, and calories. These additives can lead to raised cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

22. Sweetened Coconut Water

Coconut water is often marketed as a natural and hydrating beverage. However, some brands add sugar for taste, impacting cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Opt for unsweetened coconut water or plain water instead.

23. Flavored Sports Recovery Drinks

Recovery drinks specifically designed for sports enthusiasts can contain added sugars and high levels of calories. These drinks, if consumed unnecessarily, can lead to elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

24. Sweetened Iced Matcha

Matcha tea has gained popularity due to its potential health benefits. However, sweetened iced matcha beverages often contain added sugars that can contribute to increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Opt for unsweetened matcha or use natural sweeteners.

25. Pre-Packaged Smoothies

Pre-packaged smoothies found in supermarkets or convenience stores can be convenient but are often loaded with added sugars and preservatives. These can negatively impact cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

26. Margaritas

Margaritas, especially those made with pre-packaged mixes or added syrups, can be high in sugars and calories. These cocktails can significantly raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels when consumed in excess.

27. Sweetened Teas

Teas that are pre-sweetened with added sugars can quickly become a calorie-dense beverage choice. These drinks can lead to increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels, so opt for unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties.

28. Sweetened Hot Apple Cider

Hot apple cider often contains added sugars to enhance its flavor. These sugars can contribute to raised cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Opt for unsweetened apple cider or make your own with fresh apples.

29. Milkshakes

Milkshakes, especially those made from fast-food chains, often contain excessive amounts of saturated fats, sugars, and calories. These ingredients can lead to increased cholesterol levels and should be consumed sparingly, if at all.

30. Artificially Sweetened Drinks

While artificially sweetened drinks may be sugar-free, they can still negatively impact cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Some studies suggest a link between artificial sweeteners and increased LDL cholesterol.

Opt for natural, unsweetened beverages instead.