High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for heart attack, stroke and heart disease. A nutrient-rich diet, based upon fruits, vegetables and whole grains and limited in saturated fat, trans fats and cholesterol can help improve your cholesterol levels and overall wellness, according to MayoClinic.com. For additional benefits, exercise regularly, see your doctor for routine cholesterol testing and maintain a healthy weight. For specified guidance, discuss your wellness goals with a qualified dietary professional.
Butter and Margarine
Margarine and butter contain rich amounts of fat. Butter contains saturated fat -- a major contributor to high cholesterol. Margarine contains trans fats, which can negatively influence your LDL, or bad cholesterol. According to the American Heart Association, many people mistakenly believe that switching from butter to margarine when in fact, both can be damaging when consumed in excess. Replacing butter and margarine with appropriate amounts of healthy fat sources, such as olive oil or canola oil, is a more effective way to improve your cholesterol and heart health.
Organ Meats, Egg Yolks and Whole Milk
In addition to saturated fat and trans fats, dietary cholesterol -- cholesterol present in food -- contributes to your cholesterol level. According to MayoClinic.com, organ meats, egg yolks and whole milk contain the most concentrated amounts of dietary cholesterol; they also contain saturated fat. Limit or avoid organ meats, such as such as liver, kidneys and brains and dishes made with egg yolks, such as omelets, fried eggs, egg salad and hard-boiled eggs. Limit foods containing whole milk and other full-fat dairy products as well. Full-fat cheeses, cheese-topped pizza, heavy cream, ice cream, cheesecake and high-fat creamy coffee beverages also contain undesirable amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol.
Commercially Prepared Snack Foods
Commercially prepared snack foods, such as potato chips, crackers, cakes, cookies, and pastries often contain hydrogenated vegetable oil---a significant source of trans fats. Since commercially prepared food manufacturers are only required to list trans fats on food packaging if it contains more than 0.5g of trans fats per serving, MayoClinic.com suggests reading ingredients lists rather than trusting labels that indicate "trans fat-free." Even modest portions of trans fats can add up quickly and negatively influence your cholesterol levels. Avoid all snack foods that list hydrogenated vegetable oil, partially hydrogenated vegetable oil, margarine or shortening for best results.
