A low cholesterol diet is often recommended for individuals whose cholesterol levels are higher than they should be. Cholesterol levels may vary according to sex, age and overall medical condition. Good cholesterol (HDL - high density lipoprotein), also known as the happy cholesterol, should not be higher than 200, while about 180 is good. Bad cholesterol (LDL- low density lipoprotein) should be 100 or under. When seeking to lower cholesterol, guidelines to a healthy diet that offers adequate nutrition while lowering cholesterol levels is essential to success and heart health.
Step 1
Lower intake of high fat foods such as fried foods and foods high in saturated fats. Saturated fats retain their shape at room temperature, such as those found in whole milk dairy products and meat such as beef.
Step 2
Determine the amount of fat right for your body and condition. A popular formula for calculating the amount of fat calories or grams of fat you should consume on a daily basis can be found on a variety of websites, including the one found at GICare.com (see References). For example, to find what 30 percent of your daily caloric intake of fats should be, multiple your total daily calories by 0.30. Then, divide that number by 9. Each gram of fat totals approximately 9 calories.
Step 3
Limit the amount of sodium you consume on a daily basis. Your body needs sodium, or salt, but too much can also increase cholesterol levels, leading to heart disease and chronic kidney disease. The normal average daily intake of sodium for adults is between 1,500 and 2,400 mg of sodium per day, according to the Mayo Clinic. To put things in perspective, a single teaspoon of salt contains just over 2,300 mg of sodium.
Step 4
Choose low fat or nonfat products over "regular" foods. For example, instead of purchasing whole milk, try 2 percent, 1 percent or fat-free milk. You get the same benefits without the fat. Choose low-fat mayo and salad dressings. Reduce your intake of saturated and trans-fats and try to avoid processed foods such as frozen pizzas and, of course, fast food, as it is high in calories and fats. Increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables.
Step 5
Eat lean meats such as chicken and turkey and limit yourself to only three or four eggs per week, without bacon and sausages. Limit your intake of prepared lunch meats and stay away from animal organs like livers, gizzards and hearts.
