Cholesterol consists of high-density lipoprotein, known as HDL, and low-density lipoprotein, also known as LDL, states the American Heart Association. While LDL is known as the "bad" cholesterol, HDL is considered "good cholesterol" because high levels may protect against cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, according to the American Heart Association. People who seek to lower levels of LDL and increase HDL levels should construct their diet to include low cholesterol foods.
Healthy Fats
Although some fats, such as trans fats and saturated fats, found in hydrogenated oils are unhealthy for cholesterol levels. According to the American Heart Association, people should replace these fats with healthy fats to improve HDL cholesterol levels and decrease LDL cholesterol levels. MayoClinic.com recommends incorporating fats from healthy foods such as olive oil, canola oil, avocados, nuts, fish and olives. Fish oil supplements can also be taken to increase daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids, which are healthy for the heart.
Onions
According to Fat Free kitchen, eating fresh onions increase HDL levels while decreasing LDL levels. This occurs because onions contain properties that dissolves blood clots, reports MayoClinic.com. Onions also provide water and soluble fiber, which the body needs for digestive health and cholesterol regulation. The American Heart Association reports that eating a raw onion daily may contribute to increasing good cholesterol levels.
Soluble Fiber
Soluble fiber is a nutrient that dissolves in water. According to MayoClinic.com, adding soluble fiber to daily diet may help to increase good cholesterol levels and lower LDL levels. Soluble fiber is found in whole grain such as fresh fruits, vegetables and oats. MayoClinic.com recommends eating fresh fruit and oatmeal together for a healthy, fiber-filled snack or meal.
Soy
Soy and other products made from soy contain phytoestrogens, which can contribute to increasing good cholesterol levels by adding two or more servings of soy products to a daily diet, reports Fat Free Kitchen. Soy can be found in the form of edamame or by supplementing soy-based products such as tempeh, soymilk or tofu to a daily diet.
