When you hear the term cholesterol-free, it is referring to food products that contain zero amounts of cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol is a byproduct of the fats that are found in animal-based foods like eggs, dairy products and meat. Vegetables and fruits contain no cholesterol whatsoever. While the human body requires cholesterol for the proper function of the brain and other tissues, having too high of a cholesterol level can cause serious health conditions, such as heart disease. Finding foods that contain no cholesterol is beneficial if you or your doctor are concerned that your cholesterol levels are too high.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables naturally contain no cholesterol. They can be eaten raw or cooked. To add additional flavor to your vegetables, sprinkle some herbs, such as basil or rosemary, over your vegetables. Some vegetables also serve as substitutes for other foods that contain cholesterol. For example, you can replace the oil found in brownie recipes with zucchini, according to the American Heart Association. Not only do fruits and vegetables contain zero cholesterol, but they also have a number of other benefits so you should try to add as many fruits and vegetables into your daily diet as possible.
Spices and Herbs
Spices and herbs that are used to season and cook contain no cholesterol, according to AskDrSears.com. Some examples include salt, turmeric, allspice, thyme, anise, tarragon, basil leaves, spearmint, bay leaf, sage, caraway seeds, saffron, cardamom, rosemary, celery seed, prepared mustard seeds, chervil, poppy, cinnamon, pepper, chili powder, peppermint, cloves, paprika, coriander, oregano, cumin, nutmeg, curry, marjoram, dill, ginger, fennel, onion powder, garlic powder and fenugreek. Vanilla extract and vinegar are also cholesterol-free.
Legumes, Nuts and Seeds
Most legumes, nuts and seeds contain plenty of healthy unsaturated fat, protein, antioxidants and fiber. Combining the fact that they contain the healthy unsaturated fat with having no cholesterol makes legumes, nuts and seeds choices that are heart healthy, according to the American Heart Association. Each week, you should strive to consume around five servings of legumes, nuts or seeds. A serving can consist of 1/3 cup of nuts, 1/2 cup of cooked legumes, such as dry beans or peas, two tbsp. of seeds or two tbsp. or peanut butter. Kidney beans, almonds, lentils, hazelnuts, sunflower seeds and walnuts are all excellent, cholesterol-free sources of protein, fiber and magnesium. If you choose to eat any type of canned beans, check the label to ensure that they are not packed with meat as this could add cholesterol to the otherwise healthy snack.
