If you have high cholesterol, it's best to avoid foods that can raise your cholesterol level higher. There are two main types of cholesterol: High-density lipoprotein is good for you and can help reduce your chance of developing heart disease, while low-density lipoprotein is known as the bad cholesterol. LDL can be found in many high fat foods. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute recommends you keep LDL levels below 100mg/dL to lessen your chances of developing heart disease.
Dairy
Full-fat dairy products have high levels of saturated fat, which can increase the level of LDL in your blood. Avoid whole milk and instead use 1 percent or nonfat milk. Instead of ice-cream, try sorbet. Avoid cheese unless it is a low-fat version. Switch to soy and tofu cheese and soy butter. Margarine is not a viable alternative to butter if you have high cholesterol. According to Harvard University, margarine can be worse for your heart due to the trans fats it contains.
Meats
Processed meats are the enemy if you are trying to lower your cholesterol. Sausage, bacon, sandwich meats, hot dogs and salami are all filled with saturated fat. Chicken or turkey versions may be slightly better. Organ meats, such as kidney and liver, contain cholesterol, which can add to your cholesterol problems. Also avoid chicken or turkey cooked with the skin on. According to the American Heart Association, lean and prime cuts of meats like pork or beef are OK as long as you drain the fat after cooking.
Fried Foods and Oils
If you have high cholesterol, saturated fats are bad and trans fats are even worse. Fried chicken, french fries and other fried foods can raise your cholesterol. Tropical oils, such as coconut oil, are also high in saturated fats and can raise your cholesterol levels. That doesn't mean you can't cook with oil, but switch to vegetable oils that are liquid at room temperature, such as olive oil or canola oil. The unsaturated fats in those oils can help lower your blood cholesterol.
