High cholesterol levels can cause heart disease and damage to blood vessels. Cholesterol is made in the body, and some cholesterol is obtained from the food we eat. Certain foods raise cholesterol levels in the blood.
Saturated Fat
Saturated fats can raise cholesterol. These fats are solid at room temperature and are found in meat and dairy products.
Trans Fat
Trans fat is found in many processed foods, often as "partially hydrogenated vegetable oil." It has the same effect on the body as eating saturated fat.
Eggs
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, foods high in dietary cholesterol, such as eggs, do not raise blood cholesterol levels as much as saturated fats. A limit of one egg daily is recommended for healthy individuals and a maximum of three weekly for people with heart disease.
Organ Meats
Organ meats such as liver, brains, kidneys and hearts contain more dietary cholesterol than other types of meat.
Animal Foods
Dietary cholesterol is found in animal foods and recipes that use those foods such as pudding, cheese and meat sauces. Fruit and vegetables do not contain cholesterol.
